…Founders meet investors as UK pushes stronger business links
By Kingsley Samuel
From startup pitches to one-on-one meetings with investors, Nigerian founders had several chances to make new connections at Moonshot 2026, where the United Kingdom showcased its support for African businesses looking to grow beyond their home markets.
The UK’s week of engagements at the Lagos technology conference included founder showcases, investor matchmaking and discussions on digital trade, access to finance, climate resilience and innovation-led growth.
Ahead of Moonshot, the UK supported the TECA Demo and Pitch Days, delivered by BFA Global through UK-funded FSD Africa. Nigerian innovators presented solutions to local challenges, while founders pitched their businesses to investors and ecosystem leaders.
The UK-Nigeria Tech Hub also backed the Magna Investor Connection Drive, which brought 25 vetted founders together with 15 active investors for pre-arranged meetings to explore investment and partnership opportunities.
His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for Africa, Alastair Long, joined UK representatives, founders and investors at Moonshot to discuss how African businesses can attract funding, expand and reach international markets.
Oyinkan Akinola-Bello, Country Director of the UK-Nigeria Technology Hub at the British Deputy High Commission in Lagos, said Nigeria was home to some of Africa’s most ambitious entrepreneurs.
“Through our partnerships with founders, investors, policymakers and ecosystem builders, we are helping create the conditions businesses need to grow, attract investment and access international opportunities,” she said.
She said the UK wanted to help Nigerian businesses build global connections and grow sustainably.
“The UK is proud to be a long-term partner for innovation and enterprise. We want to see more Nigerian businesses scaling successfully, building global connections and driving sustainable economic growth,” Akinola-Bello said.
She added that the real test of the week’s activities would be what came next.
“The real measure of success will be the partnerships, investments and opportunities that emerge long after this week has ended,” she said.
Separately, British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Jonny Baxter, hosted founders, investors and ecosystem leaders at a reception ahead of the African Prosperity Summit 2026, hosted by Venture Platform. They discussed how innovation, investment and stronger partnerships could support economic growth across Africa.
The UK also highlighted its Global Entrepreneur Programme, which helps international companies exploring a UK headquarters or research and development presence as part of their global expansion.
The activities form part of the UK’s broader effort to deepen commercial ties with Nigeria and connect African businesses with investment, expertise and international partners.
