African Business Connect

Virtual Speaker Series

About

African Business Connect

The African Business Connect (ABC) Virtual Speaker Series is brought to you by the African Professionals Network (APNET) and the African Business Connect Program at the Haile College of Business at Northern Kentucky University. This series provides U.S. and African businesses, investors, entrepreneurs, and students with valuable insights into the opportunities, challenges, and strategies for conducting business between the two regions.

This informative series offers participants a unique opportunity to connect, share knowledge, and expand their understanding of both the U.S. and African markets, unlocking potential on both sides.

Main Objectives of the Speaker Series

The ABC Virtual Speaker Series focuses on enhancing trade and business engagement between American and African businesses, particularly in the tri-state region of Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana, as well as across the broader U.S., by:

Knowledge Sharing

Provide insights into market dynamics, regulatory frameworks, and cultural considerations in both regions.
Identifying Opportunities

Explore key sectors such as technology, agriculture, renewable energy, and healthcare for mutual benefit.
Fostering Collaborations

Build networks between American and African businesses and entrepreneurs for mutual growth.

Equipping Businesses

Provide tools and connections necessary for successful ventures in both U.S. and African markets, aligning with U.S. Policy Initiatives like Prosper Africa and the U.S. Strategy towards sub-Saharan Africa.
Leveraging the Diaspora

Utilize the knowledge and connections of the African Diaspora in the U.S. to facilitate these engagements.

The Program

The focus of the ABC Program is to increase business and economic engagement between the United States and Africa. It includes initiatives such as the ABC Speaker Series, the ABC Collaborative—where faculty and experts lead student consulting groups into African countries to explore market and investment opportunities—and the ABC Summit, with the inaugural event planned for September 2025 in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Participants

The series expects to attract an average of 200 participants, including:

Business leaders, investors, and entrepreneurs from the U.S. and Africa.
Representatives from African governments and trade-related agencies.
U.S. federal and state government officials involved in international trade.
Policymakers and industry experts.