Nigerian Tech Talents Can Attract Global Funding—With the Right Pitch, Says US MAC Co-Founder
In a compelling address to Nigeria’s burgeoning tech community, Chris Burry, co-founder of the United States Market Access Centre (US MAC), delivered a clear message: the country’s innovators possess world-class talent, but need to master the art of storytelling to unlock international venture capital.
The Funding Gap Challenge
Speaking at a hybrid media engagement in Abuja on Thursday, the Silicon Valley-based expert addressed one of the most persistent challenges facing Nigeria’s startup ecosystem—bridging the funding gap that separates local innovators from global investment opportunities.
“Global funds chase talents,” Burry stated emphatically. “However, you first have to prove to the global capital community why investing in Nigeria is a great idea.” His remarks cut to the heart of a paradox facing African tech hubs: while talent abounds, access to international funding remains constrained.
The Art of the Pitch
What separates successful startups from those struggling to secure funding? According to Burry, it’s not just technical expertise or market potential—it’s the ability to craft a narrative that resonates with international investors.
“The mere existence of talent isn’t enough,” he explained. “You need compelling narratives and well-articulated business strategies that speak directly to the expectations of global capital markets.” This insight reflects a growing recognition among ecosystem builders that technical skills alone won’t unlock funding—entrepreneurs must become fluent in the language of international finance.
Imo State as a Case Study
Burry revealed an ongoing collaboration between US MAC and the Imo State government, highlighting it as a model for public-private partnership in tech development. He praised Governor Hope Uzodinma’s administration for demonstrating “strong political will and vision” in supporting innovation.
“It is due to the political vision and will,” Burry emphasized. “The government has to be involved and support technological innovation. Imo State has this vision—we believe the government is serious about tech startup growth, and that’s why we’re collaborating.”
The US MAC co-founder noted that while Imo State serves as their current focal point, the organization maintains interest in supporting tech ecosystems across Nigeria. This regional approach suggests a strategic effort to build success stories that can then scale nationally.
The Nigeria Startup Act: A Foundation for Growth
Burry’s comments arrive at a pivotal moment for Nigeria’s tech landscape. The Nigeria Startup Act, signed into law by former President Muhammadu Buhari in October 2022, created a regulatory framework designed to foster innovation and ease access to funding.
The legislation represents a significant step toward creating the enabling environment Burry describes as essential. By providing tax incentives, simplifying regulations, and establishing startup support funds, the Act aims to position Nigeria as Africa’s premier tech investment destination.
What Comes Next?
For Nigerian entrepreneurs eyeing international funding, Burry’s insights suggest several key action points:
- Master investor communication: Develop pitch decks and narratives tailored to global VC expectations
- Understand market dynamics: Research what makes international investors tick
- Leverage government initiatives: Utilize frameworks like the Startup Act to strengthen business foundations
- Build strategic partnerships: Collaborate with organizations like US MAC that bridge local talent and global capital
As Nigeria’s tech ecosystem continues maturing, the ability to effectively communicate value to international investors may well become the differentiator between startups that scale globally and those that remain constrained by local funding limitations.
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