Selected experience.
Work with governments, multilaterals and foundations - shown through what changed on the ground: adoption, repeat use and influence.
Developing new ecosystem growth metrics
For International Growth Centre (IGC) Ethiopia, we developed a diagnostic framework connecting firm-level startup data with wider ecosystem conditions - introducing growth metrics for scale-up conversion, capital leverage and firm progression.
Diagnosing why African ventures stall before scale
African ventures were being assessed through fragmented evidence and generic startup metrics. We built a systemic diagnostic of the conditions that limit scale - firm capability, support infrastructure, capital, markets and ecosystem coordination. See africanscalecraft.com
Reframing youth livelihoods beyond jobs
Applied research on youth livelihoods, commissioned by Generation Unlimited (UNICEF) and Youth Business International network. Currently in development; launching at UNGA, September 2026.
Shaping a systems measurement strategy
A leading European foundation needed to know how systems change could be assessed before building an operational measurement approach. We synthesised practice across the funder ecosystem and advised on credible ways to track contribution, learning and systemic progress.
Open data platforms for innovation ecosystems
Through the RISA Fund (FCDO ), we worked with government partners in Kenya, Ethiopia and Rwanda to establish national Dealroom platforms for startup ecosystem data - improving visibility of venture activity for governments, ESOs and capital providers.
Looking beyond signal detection in AI policymaking
Co-authored with sistemaFutura and i4Policy, this paper examines how AI is used around government decision-making - and the gap between faster evidence processing and the institutional judgement, workflows and accountability needed to turn analysis into policy impact.
Assessing public reform infrastructure
Co-authored white paper with i4Policy diagnosing the systemic absorption failures behind Africa's challenge programmes. Introduces a readiness-led design framework to embed innovation into procurement, budgets, and state capability over time.
Testing competitive neutrality in innovation programmes
We produced an independent report on how vertically integrated innovation programmes can distort markets when funders, convenors and delivery providers occupy overlapping roles - presented at an OECD Innovation Journey session as a governance lens on competitive neutrality and ecosystem stewardship.
Offshoring African startups - beyond founder choice
Discussion paper examining the patterns, structures, and incentives behind African startup offshoring. Co-authored with Sendemo. providing practical guidance for founders, early investors, and policymakers.
Strengthening support for township entrepreneurs
Systems design for a UK Government commission, targeting township entrepreneurs across the South African innovation ecosystem. Programme interventions synergised activity across multiple government and corporate organisations, leveraging significant impact investment.
Moving sustainability beyond executive silos
MTN needed sustainability and innovation to cut across senior leadership, not sit inside separate functions. We facilitated executive co-creation in Lagos to build shared ownership, align priorities and shape a more joined-up operating model.