The exciting grant-based competition brought together 10 brilliant student entrepreneurs from the University of Ghana Business School (UGBS); and the University of Cape Coast (UCC). These innovative students pitched their business ideas to a panel of distinguished judges, Priscilla Yaa Birago, CEO & Founder of Soko bags, Wahab Adams, Group Head of IT, Hollard Ghana and Fredrick Lamptey, General Manager, Business Development, Hollard Insurance, in a bid to secure funding to scale their ventures.
After a compelling round of presentations, Vette Multiple Test Kits, a revolutionary women's healthcare diagnostics company with innovative, easy-to-use self-testing solutions for five common vaginal infections, including bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections, and trichomoniasis, emerged as the overall winner, walking away with GHC 40,000. Toudeka Palm Oil Ent, an FDA-approved palm oil brand that combines food safety and innovation and Kriblink, a cutting-edge solution to solve student accommodation problems, placed second and third, respectively, receiving GHC 20,000 and GHC 10,000 in funding.
In a special gesture of inclusivity, Hollard Ghana also awarded five visually impaired students from both universities with cash prizes for their participation in this year’s challenge.
Speaking on the importance of the initiative, Cynthia Ofori-Dwumfuo, Group Head of Marketing, Corporate Affairs and Customer Experience at Hollard Ghana, shared:
“Looking back at the many impact stories since the inception of the Hollard X Academia initiative three years ago with four universities, I must say it has been a rewarding journey. We have supported society by partnering with the schools to grow young entrepreneurs; ultimately, bridging the gap between education and the world of work. We are incredibly proud of all the students who participated. Their creativity, passion, and business acumen are exactly what Ghana needs.”
She added: “Through the Streetwise Finance initiative under the Hollard x Academia platform, we aim to equip the next generation with financial literacy and the tools and confidence to build sustainable livelihoods. Beyond the funding, winners will receive mentorship and access to Hollard’s business network to support the growth of their ventures. To our contestants, you’re all winners; the exposure, experience, and training you’ve gained are invaluable assets for your future.”
Prof. George Acheampong, Director of the UGBS Innovation and Incubation Hub, also remarked: “This collaboration with Hollard Ghana has brought real-world relevance to the classroom. It empowers our students to apply their entrepreneurial knowledge in meaningful ways and validates their potential to become changemakers. We are proud of the outcomes and look forward to deepening this partnership.”
Christiana Asamoah, Founder of Vette Multiple Test Kits, expressed gratitude on behalf of the winners:
“Winning this challenge is a dream come true. The funding will help us scale our production and reach more customers. We’re grateful to Hollard Ghana for believing in our vision and to our mentors who guided us throughout this journey.”
The Hollard Streetwise Finance Business Challenge is part of the broader Hollard X Academia initiative, a corporate social investment programme in partnership with four public universities: the University of Ghana Business School, University of Cape Coast, University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR), and the University of Media, Arts and Communication – Institute of Journalism (UniMAC-IJ). The initiative involves resource sharing, mentorship, and entrepreneurial training to help shape the next generation of business leaders.
Other impressive student-led businesses that participated in this year’s pitch included Jesparks Foods, Mawie Foods, Stalwarts Business Hub, Farmligo, Cash Aid, Abijah Cosmetics, and Abe Farm.
About Hollard Ghana
The country’s favourite insurance group is Hollard Ghana, with subsidiaries Hollard Insurance and Hollard Life Assurance. The group combines its deep local knowledge of the market, having previously operated in Ghana for 25 years as Metropolitan Insurance, with the world-class expertise of an international insurance brand in 18 countries worldwide. With feet firmly planted on Ghanaian soil but headquartered in South Africa, Hollard delivers innovative insurance solutions customised to the unique risks Ghanaians face. Hollard offers various life and general insurance products, including funeral, personal accident, motor, business, travel, home, and more, and can be reached via toll-free on 0800 999 444.
Beyond various nationwide office branches and Hollard 2U franchise shops, Ghanaians can find Hollard at Shell Fuel Station Welcome Shops, Melcom stores and online at www.hollard.com.gh and www.melcom.com/hollard-insurance for all their insurance needs.
