The discussion, themed Scaling Your Business Through Strategic Technology Investment, centred on integrating technology into business for accelerated growth and bridging the digital divide by providing women-led businesses with the tools they need to thrive.

A key focus of the discussion was the importance of effectively leveraging digital tools to drive business growth, shedding light on how many businesses, particularly those in rural or underserved areas, are not fully harnessing the potential of existing tech devices to fuel their success.

Ms. Bolarin said there is a critical need for businesses to recognise the value of technology in accelerating growth. She emphasised that the challenge is not only the inaccessibility of technology for small businesses, but in the underutilisation of basic connectivity options, which can serve as gateways to opportunities and growth.

 "If you're not using tech devices or tools to access information to help grow your business, then you're facing a challenge. The real challenge isn't just having access to tech, but knowing how to use it strategically," she explained.

For many businesses, the barriers to tech adoption go beyond simply having access to the devices. Data costs, lack of infrastructure, and rural exclusion were highlighted as significant hurdles that prevent smaller or rural businesses from fully engaging with digital solutions.

Ms. Bolarin stressed that for a business to stay competitive, it must integrate important tech tools and understand their value in driving efficiency, expanding reach, and improving customer engagement.

"We need to empower businesses to understand why these tools are crucial and how they can leverage them for growth," Ms. Bolarin added.

Tech support and capacity building forms part of the Telecel Women in Business initiative, which was launched last September during the annual celebration of the telco’s Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SME) Month.

Additionally, the Women in Business package provides tailored solutions and support to women-led businesses including access to grants and loans, health and life insurance products, free website development, and e-commerce support. With this initiative, Telecel wants to create an enabling and supportive climate where women-led businesses can be sustainable and grow.

Moderated by the founder of the Ladies Entrepreneurship Club, Tonisha Tagoe, other speakers on the APD 2025 Breakfast Meeting panel included Edna Engmann of Fidelity Bank, Em Ekong of the Aspen Institute’s Network of Development Entrepreneurs, Johanna Svanikier of HACSA Foundation and Mrs. Grace Krobo-Edusei of Grace Centre for Growth and Excellence.