Building education infrastructure beyond venture capital

A practical example of how patient relationship-building, public-sector funding, and contracts can turn a social-enterprise vision into durable infrastructure.

Prof. David S. Akanbi has raised more than $10 million to develop a modern multi-campus university and polytechnic. His work shows that founders building public-interest institutions can look beyond the standard angel and venture-capital playbook.

The deeper lesson is not simply to chase grants. It is to understand public priorities, build institutional credibility, create measurable outcomes, and develop relationships long before an opportunity is published.

We are spotlighting this work because African founders deserve a broader picture of capital: one that includes government funding, procurement, strategic partnerships, earned revenue, and disciplined execution.

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