George Antwi-Boasiako is an ecosystem builder focusing on innovation, digitization, and entrepreneurship. He is the CEO of the innovation hub Agrico Hub and the ecosystem-owned finance institution Startups Cooperative Credit Union. He also doubles as the Director of Finance for the Ghana Hubs Network. At AgriCo Hub, he spearheads the mission of training, incubating, networking, and funding female-led and youth-led ventures.
How would you describe your job to a 5-year-old?
My job as the CEO of Agrico Hub is to help people build their businesses, just like a teacher teaches kids to become smarter.
What’s the most surprising thing you’ve learned since launching your startup or getting into the role?
One of the most surprising things I have learned is that most startups in Ghana lack basic business management skills essential to their operations.
What’s one function or area of your job you spend the most time on?
I spend most of my time counselling startup founders, guiding them through challenges, and helping them make strategic decisions about their businesses. I also have one-on-one sessions with these founders to help them devise solutions for their businesses.
What are three trends in your sector that you are bullish about or keeping a close tab on?
- Sustainable Practices in Agribusinesses
- Digitalization of processes and services in ICT and enterprise
- Growth of E-commerce in trade
What gaps do you think startups in Ghana should be building for?
- Focus on building sustainable structures and positioning themselves to become ready for funding.
- Market penetration: Startups need to penetrate the market with innovation on creativity
- Technology adoption
If you were to build a new company, which historical or contemporary figure would you appoint to the board, and why?
I would pick Bill Gates because of his experience, enthusiasm, and zeal for building things that never existed. I also admire his philanthropic efforts to address global challenges. During COVID-19, he played a key role in ensuring we got vaccines.
