Google opens first Google Developers Space in Lagos

Hooray! Google launched its first Google Developers Space in Lagos, Nigeria. Hitherto, the space was known as the Google Launchpad Space.  Consequently, it will serve as a space where entrepreneurs, developers, VCs and investors can connect and collaborate with each other.

In July 2017, Google’s CEO, Sundar Pichai, made a commitment to African entrepreneurs. That is, to start the Launchpad Accelerator Africa program and launch a space to house these efforts in Nigeria. Therefore, the launch of this Google space is a fulfillment of that pledge.

Speaking to invited guests, Launchpad Accelerator Africa’s Head of Operations, Onajite Emerhor said, “Google is strengthening its commitment to supporting the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Africa by opening the Google Developers Space today. We have partnered with Impact Hub to bring the Space to life. For the interiors, we worked with a local company called Spacefinish. They were under specific instructions to create an environment that fosters collaboration and innovation. We look forward to working with startups and other players in the ecosystem from across the continent at the Space”.

Is the space for free?

Google does not charge for use of the space. In addition to housing Google Launchpad Accelerator Africa, the space will support;

• developer meetups
• training
• experts office hours
• Women in tech events
• startup programs (outside of Launchpad)
• partner events that support the wider entrepreneur and developer ecosystem, as well as Google initiatives for empowering people through digital skills training.

“This space is the next step to our support for developers across the continent. From our commitment to train 100 000 developers across Africa and the launch of developer merchant support in the Google Play store, making it possible for developers to earn money through apps they build. We are excited to continue our journey with the African startup and developer communities,” says Juliet Ehimuan, Country Director, Google Nigeria.

Here’s an overview in pictures:

If you ever need to use the space, kindly find a Person of Contact at Google. Events must also be free with a tech or digital connotation.

Have you been to the space? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section!