The Africa Centre for Entrepreneurship and Youth Empowerment (ACEYE) has achieved a remarkable feat, ranking among the top 10 globally in the Atlas Network’s Smart Bets competition, despite not taking home the top prize. This prestigious recognition is a recognition of the think tank’s efforts in promoting entrepreneurial freedom and youth empowerment in Ghana.
As the only African organization to make it to the final ten, ACEYE’s nomination is a demonstration the organization’s commitment to advancing freedom and entrepreneurship in the sub-Saharan region.
The Smart Bets competition, held annually by the Atlas Network, selects ten high-achieving pro-liberty organizations from around the world, providing them with specialized support to achieve their goals and advance freedom globally.
ACEYE’s co-founder, Emmanuel Acquah, was among the top 3 globally who presented their chosen projects in the United States. He presented the 2024 REF Index report, a groundbreaking initiative that assesses and evaluates Ghana’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. The report provides comprehensive data for policymakers, investors, entrepreneurs, and other stakeholders, informing evidence-based interventions and reforms.
The REF Index report has also had a significant impact, guiding investment decisions and interventions by donors, investors, and financial institutions, among other achievements.
The 2024 edition of the report saw the Savannah Region displacing the Eastern Region in the maiden edition in 2023, highlighting the dynamic nature of Ghana’s entrepreneurial landscape.
Co- Founder Emmanuel Acquah believes this recognition is an encouragement to raise the bar for the REF Index and for other projects.
“This achievement is a powerful motivator for us to elevate our work and make an even greater impact on the lives of young people and entrepreneurs in Ghana”, He said. ACEYE remains committed to updating and expanding the report, ensuring its continued relevance and impact. He added.
Written by: Ebenezer De-Gaulle
