The NTF V Senegal Tech project at ITC led a delegation of 10 digital services companies on a mission to explore the Guinean market.
A gateway to Guinea
Embarking on a business trip is one of the most effective ways to start exporting, as it allows companies to gain insights into a new market and establish connections. Thanks to the Netherlands Trust Fund V (NTF V) project at the International Trade Centre (ITC), a group of small Senegalese tech companies traveled to Conakry from 20-24 November to capitalize on new business opportunities.
For Cheikh Sy, the founder of digital services company YOWIT, this journey came at the perfect time.
‘We already had a client in Guinea, but we lacked the time to explore new potential prospects. NTF V arranged around 10 sales meetings for us with key prospects,’ he stated. ‘We swiftly secured our first contract with an Internet service provider, followed by agreements with two fuel distributors. We are currently in discussions for more opportunities. This mission has surpassed our expectations.’
For Cheikh Sy, this is just the beginning as he continues to visit Conakry to explore collaboration with a prominent local partner. He attributes the success of his export strategy to the support provided by NTF V.
‘This collaborative visit saved us valuable time and encouraged synergy among the companies in the delegation. I have maintained contact with several of them for potential future partnerships,’ he added.
Empowering export exploration
Aristarc, a company based in Dakar that specializes in web and mobile applications, had already initiated sales efforts in Guinea when they were presented with the opportunity for the business trip to Conakry.
For Diyé Dia, the managing director, the mission proved to be extremely beneficial.
‘While business travel is an effective way to gain insights into a foreign market and establish new connections, it can be financially demanding,’ he explained. ‘With this mission, NTF V provided us with the resources to continue and enhance the prospecting work we had started in Guinea.’
Focused on microfinance institutions, Aristarc secured seven key meetings with Guinean banking and insurance entities.
‘The pre-planned interviews were very helpful. To maximize our chances of success, we extended our stay and conducted two days of training for our prospects. This allowed Aristarc to showcase its solutions and expertise,’ Dia mentioned.
The efforts paid off, with the company generating approximately 10 quotes. Ongoing discussions are promising, and Diyé Dia is optimistic about the future.
‘NTF V is broadening our horizons. Last year we were in Ulan Bator, and this year in Guinea. The program’s strength lies in its ability to engage us in international events and facilitate our access to potential clients,’ he concluded.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of International Trade Centre.