Think locally but act globally - 4th Heritage Initiative

UGANDA - Owners of business startups and innovations have been called upon to think locally but act globally in a bid to catch up with emerging trends. Dr. Monica Musenero Masanza, the minister of science, technology, and innovation advised business owners to continue doing business here but should change their mindset to suit the global standards.

"My ministry has been fully committed to supporting innovators cross the bridge into utilization, given advice and support services to link them to the right entities they need. We are going to gap-filling skilling because some mentorship is by hand in collaboration with many other people in the country," she noted. She added that innovators have worked a long time as discreet entities which has hindered most of them for continual growth.

"Innovation works in an eco-system, a network of things, and they need so many connections for one to succeed. So when they work alone or just a few, you always find that they do not grow, she added.

She was speaking to business trendsetters gathered at Onomo hotel Nakasero at the annual Business Trends Expo which took place on 7th February 2023. The minister also launched the 4th Trendsetters Forum.

Meanwhile, Yvonne Mpanga the organiser of the Business Trends Expo, said emphasis will be put on cross-mentorship to help startups succeed. "Business startups should have an eye for both the local and global markets and our role will be to help young entrepreneurs receive mentorship from role model business leaders," she said.

Other Speakers included; Prof. Waswa Balunywa Principal Makerere University Business School (MUBS) who said technology is the best driver of change. He advised startups and innovations to adapt to catch up with the rest of the world.

Najam Saifee Japan said entrepreneurs need to understand innovation and acquire soft skills to enhance your career growth. Munuzi Timothy represented the 4th Heritage Initiative.

The Business Trends Expo had different businesses and innovations showcase their products and services and also provided a platform where different speakers shared experiences and counsel.

The Business Trends Expo 2023 was held under the theme 'Mindset Change Enabling Re-innovation in Business.' The one-day event attracted exhibitors in the energy, education, and health sector among others.