Written By: Ruka Sanusi (Executive Director, GCIC)
In today’s fast-paced and hyper-competitive business world, startups often find themselves navigating a labyrinth of challenges and obstacles, such as limited financial resources, difficulties in entering new markets, and a lack of specialised knowledge. In such a landscape, business incubators have emerged as vital allies.
Think of business incubators as guardian angels. From providing affordable office space, mentorship, technical advice, industry connections, resources – and sometimes even funding – they exist to help startups and entrepreneurs get off the ground and succeed. Many incubators also provide business services, including help with accounting, marketing and legal matters, often essential for smooth operations. They are a nurturing space, in which startups can thrive during those all-important formative stages.
There are several types of incubators too, catering to different needs, from social incubators (which focus on charities or community projects); seed accelerators (more intensive and time-limited programs, providing mentorship to founders); while examples of major incubators include Seedcamp, Europe’s largest collective of angel investors and founders, and Y Combinator, which has helped launch the likes of Dropbox and Airbnb by offering seed funding and connections to a whole network of investors.
The Ghana Climate Innovation Centre (GCIC) was created nearly 10 years ago with the purpose of supporting exceptional ventures and entrepreneurs who are pioneering effective solutions to climate change. In line with other incubators, we also offer tailored resources, including business training, financial grants, and access to global experts in areas such as agriculture, energy, solar power, water management, and waste management.
Startups are frequently hampered by financial constraints that make scaling operations and investing in technology very difficult. The sustainable packaging company Soko Bags, founded by Priscilla Yaa Birago in 2022, exemplified these struggles. Priscilla’s mission was to tackle the severe plastic waste crisis in Accra – a pressing issue in Ghana. Plastic, which accounts for a large portion of Ghana’s post-consumer waste, often ends up in open areas, drains, and streams, exacerbating an already severe sanitation problem.
Priscilla had found a solution, but faced significant obstacles, including limited resources, lack of market access, and insufficient technical expertise: the same sorts of challenges that make it difficult for start-ups to grow and refine their products. In Priscilla’s case, there was another big problem too: female entrepreneurs in Ghana (approximately 80 percent of women-owned businesses) very often struggle to get their businesses off the ground, owing to a lack of coordinated support, affordable long-term credit, and adequate access to new technologies. The GCIC focuses on women’s economic empowerment and inclusion – so Priscilla was an especially good fit.
The impact of incubation on startups is often profound, leading to remarkable growth. And such was the case with Soko Bags. Since joining the GCIC, it has expanded its team from just eight to 24 employees, enabling it to meet rising demand and cut lead times significantly. While its production capacity soared by 500%: monthly output increased from 1,000 to 5,000 biodegradable reusable bags, thanks to the introduction of energy-efficient machinery and streamlined manufacturing processes.
Meanwhile, revenue surged over 400 per cent from 2022 to 2023; a boost driven by an expanded product line, which now includes eco-friendly aprons and t-shirts, opening up another customer segment. While Soko Bags’ overall customer base grew from 135 in its first year – 31% retail and 68% wholesale – to 318, with wholesale making up 82% of its clientele.
With guidance, Soko Bags has also broadened its reach, establishing a presence in over seven countries, including emerging markets such as Bermuda and Uganda. And, overall, its growth has had a significant economic and social impact: it has created jobs, contributed to local economies, and provided a sustainable alternative to plastic waste – while its predominantly female workforce only underscores its dedication to gender equality and social empowerment.
Says Priscilla, “The incubator didn’t just provide us with tools and resources; it fundamentally transformed how we approach our business. It challenged us to think bigger, innovate fearlessly, and stay true to our mission of sustainability. The lessons we learned during that time continue to shape our decisions and drive our growth. I can confidently say that Soko Bags wouldn’t be where it is today without the support and guidance we received from the incubator.”
At GCIC, we hope to witness a new wave of businesses tackling future challenges with innovation and resilience, as more startups embrace the benefits of incubation. The story of Soko Bags serves as a powerful reminder of the value of joining an incubator like ours. It illustrates how the right support can transform startups into amazing success stories, driving both business growth and positive societal impact.
Congratulations to you Priscilla and all at Soko Bags. It has been a privilege to join you on your journey and I can’t wait to see where you go next.
