ETK Group Ltd

ETK Group Ltd We are a global, Africa-focused business advisory firm specialising in market entry & sustainability

Enterprise, Training & Knowledge Group (ETK Group) bridges the gap between Africa and the UK. Our passion is for business development and reversal of the brain drain. The development of a company's human capital, practical knowledge of the market and continuous training & education are key to the development of any business, and are the cornerstone of the services provided by ETK Group to support

individuals, entrepreneurs and corporate clients to do better business in Africa with confidence. Through the Group's education arm - ETK Educational which has developed the very unique UK accredited African Business Management course (ABM) - we are able to provide PRACTICAL local knowledge and skills for individuals and businesses interested in doing business in Africa. And through the Group's consulting arm - ETK Consulting - we help businesses to successfully plan, develop, implement and manage their businesses successfully.

ETK has been awarded The King's Awards for Enterprise in International Trade, the UK’s highest honour for business, gran...
06/05/2026

ETK has been awarded The King's Awards for Enterprise in International Trade, the UK’s highest honour for business, granted by King Charles III.

This is the 60th anniversary of the awards, and ETK is one of only 185 organisations in the UK recognised in 2026.

We didn’t only receive this award for exporting. We received it for building real, reliable pathways into African markets.

This reflects our sustained international growth, but more importantly, our ability to help companies move from early market interest to genuine commercial presence across Africa and beyond.

For more than 15 years, we have worked across 34 African countries supporting organisations to:

• Navigate regulatory complexity
• Build credible, in‑market partnerships
• Enter markets with clear commercial pathways
• Convert strategy into revenue and long‑term growth

This award truly demonstrates the trust our partners and clients place in us, the strength of our team, and our commitment to enabling businesses to expand and operate successfully across Africa.

Commenting on the award, Bolaji Sofoluwe MBE, Managing Director at ETK, said:

“We are incredibly proud to receive the King’s Award for Enterprise in recognition of our work in international trade. This honour reflects the dedication of our team and the strength of the partnerships we have built across Africa and the UK. Over the past decade, we have focused on helping businesses navigate complex markets, unlock opportunities and drive sustainable growth. To be recognised for our impact, particularly in supporting trade and entrepreneurship, is a significant milestone for ETK and reinforces our commitment to enabling businesses to succeed globally.”

Africa continues to present significant opportunity, but success requires ex*****on, local understanding and the right partnerships.

This recognition reinforces our commitment to enabling businesses to expand and succeed across the continent and beyond.

Terser Adamu, ETK’s Director of Growth, noted:

“This is a proud milestone for ETK and reflects the growth we have achieved over the past decade, as well as the strength of our long-term vision and strategy. As we continue expanding our global footprint, we are also preparing to launch two new digital tools that capture the knowledge, experience and practical insights we have developed through years of operating in international trade. We believe these tools will play an important role in shaping the future of international expansion and trade enablement.”

Today, we are deeply thankful to our clients, partners, and team whose trust and commitment made this achievement possible. Today, we celebrate this honour.

Despite scaling real revenues, serving millions of users, and achieving valuations in the hundreds of millions for years...
30/01/2026

Despite scaling real revenues, serving millions of users, and achieving valuations in the hundreds of millions for years, Africa’s most innovative private technology companies have remained invisible to capital markets globally.

For decades, the absence of a consistent, institutional-grade benchmark for IPO readiness, governance maturity, and liquidity visibility has limited Africa’s capital market narrative. It is time for Africa’s growth story to recognised globally.

On Wednesday, 29 January 2026, the London Stock Exchange welcomed Exchange Group to open the market, marking the official launch of the Africa Tech Index (AT50), a quarterly rules-based benchmark for Africa’s most scaled private technology companies.

As a proud Charter Partner of the AT50, ETK Group joined senior leaders from across stock exchanges, global banking institutions, asset management firms, and market infrastructure, alongside founders and senior executives from companies at bell ringing ceremony.

For over 15 years, we have worked with high-growth companies, investors, governments, and development partners to help organizations move from ambition to ex*****on across complex African markets.

In practice, this means helping companies build the operational, governance, and strategic foundations that allow them to scale responsibly and engage institutional capital.

exists to provide public markets and long-term institutional capital with consistent reference points to assess governance maturity, liquidity visibility, and readiness for credible listing pathways.

Built to global standards and rooted in African realities and designed to bridge private success with public-market readiness, the Index creates a credible, rules-based signal for African technology companies.

We really enjoyed the insightful fireside conversation between Gbite Oduneye, Chair of the Africa Tech Index, and Abi Ajayi, Primary Markets Head-Africa & Middle East at the event.

This was followed by panel discussions examining private securities markets, exits and liquidity, governance and disclosure expectations, and public markets as a growth platform for scaled technology companies.

Congratulations to Gbite Oduneye and the team on the launch of this groundbreaking initiative, and to the 50 African tech companies recognised on the list.

Sustainability Strategies for Building Resilient Businesses in AfricaETK recently held a two-day Strategic Leadership Wo...
18/11/2025

Sustainability Strategies for Building Resilient Businesses in Africa

ETK recently held a two-day Strategic Leadership Workshop in Lagos, for key ETK Nigeria stakeholders. Attendees for the first day’s session included prominent senior leaders from various sectors in including healthcare, financial services, and oil and gas services.

The second day was focused on ETK partner organisations, including Project Leads and Implementing Partners for ETK’s strategic sustainable agriculture projects in Nigeria.

ETK Group’s Head of Sustainability Brent Barnette led sessions on how sustainability can drive competitive advantage, practical approaches to sustainability reporting, and creating a culture of sustainability in African businesses.

Here are Key takeaways from the two days sessions:

✅ The new competitiveness frontier is shifting from cost efficiency to sustainability

While traditional competitiveness has been defined as low-cost and high efficiency, the definition of competitiveness has been expanded to include not only these traditional criteria, but also low carbon consumption, high resilience to a range of exogenous risks and shocks, and transparency.

✅ Sustainability is now a key driver of market power

The sustainability agenda is now driving market power, including through regulations governing access to key markets, by determining availability of low-cost capital through green financing incentives, with changing consumer demands, and in key transformations through innovations in sustainability-driven technologies.

✅ Sustainable supply chains drive competitive advantage

Sustainable supply chains are now essential to organisational strength. The competitiveness pathways include cost risk reduction (efficiency resulting in lower price volatility); market access (compliance with green standards); innovation and differentiation (through circular models, local sourcing, and renewable inputs); resilience to a range of exogenous shocks (through diversified suppliers, adaptive logistics, and climate-proofing sourcing); and impacts and benefits to reputation and access to talent.

✅ Reporting on your organisation’s sustainability journey should be core to your business strategy

Sustainability reporting aligned with a recognised format shouldn’t be considered as extraneous to your strategy but should form the foundation for future-proofing your business. It’s how you engage key stakeholders, attract customers, investors, and talent, and it’s how you maintain market relevance.

If your organisation needs support in defining your sustainability strategy in the , anywhere across , or in , we’re here to help.

Contact us today [email protected]/?ismsaljsauthenabled=true" rel="ugc" target="_blank">https://outlook.office.com/book/[email protected]/?ismsaljsauthenabled=true

Building a Greater Essex: Connecting Local Ambition with Global Opportunity                          Last week at the  ,...
12/11/2025

Building a Greater Essex: Connecting Local Ambition with Global Opportunity

Last week at the , organised by the Essex Chambers of Commerce & Industry at Chelmsford City Racecourse, our team had fun engaging with innovative businesses, industry leaders, and visitors.

It was a day filled with insightful conversations, fresh perspectives, and valuable connections, all focused on shaping the future of business in Essex.

Led by our Senior Account Manager, Nwando Lawal, we were proud to share with potential business partners and visitors how ETK Group’s Africa Market Entry and Export Support Services have helped several UK and Essex-based businesses successfully expand, invest, and export into African markets.

From identifying new opportunities to navigating regulatory frameworks, our support ensures every business expansion story is sustainable, strategic, and profitable.

One of the event highlights was the panel on “Devolution in Essex: What it Means for Business”, featuring Iain McNab, Tom Walker, Julia Gregory (FCIHT), Andy Mead, and Shaun Pidcock.

The session provided clarity and thought-provoking insights into how local decision-making could empower Essex’s business community to innovate and succeed.

We also enjoyed the inspiring conversation between Eric Dixon and George Clarke, whose passion for architecture, placemaking, and community design reminded us how creativity and collaboration can transform local economies.

Congratulations to TechWyse, crowned Best in Business Award Winner 2025, a well-deserved recognition of excellence and innovation across the county.

As Essex continues to grow and redefine its economic future, ETK Group remains committed to helping local businesses in the county unlock global opportunities, with a special focus on Africa’s dynamic and fast-growing markets

If you’re an Essex business looking to expand into , connect with us at www.etkgroup.co.uk to learn how we can support your market entry, export strategy, and cross-border growth.

What You Need to Know to Grow Your International Sales In today’s changing global trade environment, building resilient ...
12/11/2025

What You Need to Know to Grow Your International Sales

In today’s changing global trade environment, building resilient supply chains and ensuring compliance have never been more important.

ETK Group Managing Director Bolaji Sofoluwe MBE Sofoluwe will be sharing raw insights at the UK Department for Business and Trade's Export Academy Webinar on how international trade agreements are shaping trade opportunities, risks, and competitive advantages for UK businesses operating in global supply chains.

During the webinar, Bolaji would explore:

✅ Key trade agreements driving global change, from the EU–UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement to CPTPP and ,

✅ How to design resilient, cost-efficient, and compliant supply chains that can adapt to evolving trade policies and

✅ How to apply practical frameworks like supply chain mapping and phased planning to strengthen competitiveness in international markets.

Why You Should Attend

This session will simplify how trade agreements intersect with sourcing, logistics, and market access, to help businesses reduce costs and avoid common compliance mistakes, build supply chains that can withstand global volatility, and gain a clearer perspective on emerging trade and growth opportunities.

The has a packed schedule of webinars throughout November to help you grow your export knowledge and take your business global.

Register now to secure your place here https://lnkd.in/d-KMu6Sr

Beyond Projects: Building Institutions That Endure, Adapt, and LeadOn Wednesday, 29th October 2025, at the Lagos Contine...
07/11/2025

Beyond Projects: Building Institutions That Endure, Adapt, and Lead

On Wednesday, 29th October 2025, at the Lagos Continental Hotel, ETK Nigeria hosted an Organisational Capacity Development Workshop on Strategic Leadership for project leads and Implementing Partners (IPs) of third-sector organisations that we work with.

It was an insightful day of learning, collaboration, and reflection, focused on helping impact-driven partners move from short-term project delivery to long-term institutional sustainability.

The intensive sessions were designed to strengthen the strategic leadership and governance capacity of implementing partners, promoting organisational sustainability and improving processes for achieving the goals of impact-driven projects across Nigeria.

The conversations explored what it truly takes to build resilient, high-performing organisations and how the IPs can further enhance their skills in fundraising and operational efficiency while maintaining financial discipline for scaling.

One of the strongest takeaways was that scaling isn’t about doing more; it’s about doing what matters most. Implementation partners must focus their vision, resources, and operations on what truly drives impact. Clear direction and alignment around measurable goals are the true drivers of sustainable growth.

Discussions at the workshop also highlighted the need to balance project objectives with organisational health. To sustain impact, organisations must protect financial stability, uphold compliance, and continually invest in their teams.

When it comes to resources, capital discipline is leadership discipline. Every Naira must be used strategically. Disciplined budgeting, transparent procurement, and data-driven decisions are the foundation of both sustainability and donor confidence.

True resilience lies in how organisations embed sustainability into their operations across governance, finance, and operations. The most successful institutions don’t just react to change; they anticipate it, adapt to it, and lead through it.

Finally, one truth that stood out during the workshop is that growth capital doesn’t follow ambition; it follows evidence. Investors and funders are drawn to organisations that demonstrate real impact, strong governance, and market demand. Proof builds trust, and trust unlocks opportunity.

Facilitated by ETK Head of Sustainability Initiatives Brent Barnette and ETK Group Managing Director Bolaji Sofoluwe MBE, the workshop challenged participants to think beyond projects, to build institutions that endure, adapt, and lead.

At ETK, we are committed to supporting organisations with the tools, guidance, and frameworks needed to strengthen their capacity, scale sustainably, and drive measurable impact.

If your organisation or partners need support in leadership, governance, financial systems, or ESG integration in Africa, ETK can help.

Let’s work together to build institutions that last and lead changes across Africa.

True influence becomes meaningful only when it opens doors for others to walk through, and the   celebrates that kind of...
03/11/2025

True influence becomes meaningful only when it opens doors for others to walk through, and the celebrates that kind of influence: leadership rooted in purpose, impact, and the power to uplift.

This year’s list honours outstanding individuals shaping business, finance, science, the arts, and culture across the UK and the African diaspora.

For the past 20 years, The Powerful Media's has showcased the depth of talent, resilience, and innovation within the UK’s Black community, and the 2026 edition is no exception.

What stands out this year list is not just the prominence of the names but the depth of their impact: leaders such as Ian Wright OBE; Pamela Maynard; Josh Siaw MBE; and Emma Grede, whose work continues to inspire and uplift Black communities in Britain and beyond.

Leading this year’s list is Afua Kyei, Chief Financial Officer of the Bank of England, named the UK’s most influential Black person for 2026 in recognition of her exceptional leadership within one of the world’s foremost financial institutions

Alongside Afua are other changemakers. From Vanessa Williams, whose artistic legacy continues to inspire excellence, to Kanya King CBE, whose creation of the MOBO Awards transformed representation in music and culture, and Mohamed Kande, PwC’s Global Advisory Leader, championing innovation and inclusion across global markets.

At ETK Group, we are proud to celebrate our Group Managing Director, Bolaji Sofoluwe MBE, recognised once again on the Powerlist for the 3rd consecutive time in recognition of her unwavering leadership in advancing trade, empowerment, and opportunities across Africa.

Congratulations to all 2026 Powerlistees, and to Michael Eboda and the Magazine team for two decades of celebrating leadership, courage, and Black excellence.

Don’t Miss Our Exclusive 1-Day Workshop in Lagos, Nigeria, Tomorrow!At ETK's intensive 1-day workshop on "Expanding into...
27/10/2025

Don’t Miss Our Exclusive 1-Day Workshop in Lagos, Nigeria, Tomorrow!

At ETK's intensive 1-day workshop on "Expanding into New Markets", our Director of Sustainability, Brent Barnette, will guide entrepreneurs, company executives, business leaders and export managers through the key themes of sustainability in supply chains and how these can improve the global competitiveness of their businesses.

Participants will also learn practical tips and strategies from ETK Managing Director, Bolaji Sofoluwe MBE, and other global business experts, who will provide effective tools and methods for successfully entering new and growing markets.

📅 Date: Tuesday, 28th October 2025

📍 Venue: Lagos Continental Hotel, 52a, Kofo Abayomi Street, Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria

⏰ Time: 10:00 AM

Limited seats available!

Register now for individual or group bookings via https://bit.ly/47jMsXJ

For more information, contact Uzoma Oguh at +2348060599434.

ETK Expansion Pro courses empower individuals and organisations to achieve optimal performance in the international business environment.

Beyond AGOA: Can Africa Unlock Its $3 Trillion Market at Home?On Tuesday, September 30, the African Growth and Opportuni...
05/10/2025

Beyond AGOA: Can Africa Unlock Its $3 Trillion Market at Home?

On Tuesday, September 30, the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) officially expired.

For 25 years, the agreement gave eligible African countries duty-free access to the US market. But here’s the reality:

✅ Only about 6% of Africa’s go to the US.

✅ Just about 4% of Africa's come from the US.

✅ Utilisation of AGOA was limited throughout its duration.

While AGOA opened doors to eligible African countries like , , , South Africa and others, it also revealed a bigger truth: no external policy should define Africa’s economic destiny.

The real game-changer lies within the . With 1.4 billion people and a $3T GDP, Africa holds the world’s most exciting consumer market in its own backyard.

Yet only 17% of trade happens within the continent, compared to intra-regional trade in Asia and Europe, which exceeds 50% and 70% of their respective total trade.

Imagine the opportunities if Africa tackles:

✅ The continent's infrastructure and logistics gaps

✅ Remove customs bottlenecks and tariffs limiting intra-African trade

✅ Provide MSME access to finance for growth and innovation

✅ Boost regional value chains in textiles, agro-processing, green energy, and minerals.

Africa doesn’t need dependency. Africa needs self-confidence, bold policies, and serious implementation.

Now is the time for Africa to move from raw material exports to value-added products. It's also high time for stronger trade alliances within the continent.

Read our latest thought piece on the future of Africa beyond AGOA here https://lnkd.in/d_ARMPk5

At ETK Group, we believe that Africa’s true opportunity lies within. We work with governments, businesses, and investors to build capacity, unlock market access, and strengthen trade ecosystems across 34 African markets.

Great leadership is about vision and impact, and that’s why we’re pleased to share that Bolaji Sofoluwe MBE is the lead ...
17/09/2025

Great leadership is about vision and impact, and that’s why we’re pleased to share that Bolaji Sofoluwe MBE is the lead interview in the latest issue of Director Magazine.

In the latest issue of Essex Director Magazine, Bolaji shares insights on her personal journey, leadership, international trade, and the power of creating opportunities that go beyond business.

But this feature goes beyond Bolaji’s personal journey. It's a reflection of ETK Group’s vision, innovation, and our impact over the last two decades. From supporting businesses across 34 African markets to shaping global trade conversations, our work is driven by our commitment to create sustainable trade and business opportunities in Africa.

At ETK Group, our story is one of vision, innovation, and impact, and Bolaji’s story is deeply connected to these.

Her leadership continues to ensure that every strategy we design, every market entry we support, and every partnership we facilitate on the continent contributes to reshaping the narrative of Africa in global trade and investment.

🔗Read the full feature in the latest issue of Essex Director Magazine: https://lnkd.in/e64TfW8G

A big thanks to Brian Wilcock, Martine Silkstone, Caroline Kearney and the entire team at Essex Director Magazine for this feature

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