Where Research Becomes Real-World Impact
Babcock Innovation & Ventures is the commercialization engine of Babcock University — transforming academic research into startups, licensed technologies and industry partnerships that drive economic growth across Africa.
Mission, Vision & Values
Our Mission
To transform Babcock University's research and intellectual capital into commercially viable innovations, startups and industry solutions that create economic value and solve Africa's most pressing challenges.
Our Vision
To be Africa's leading university innovation and venture ecosystem — a place where every research breakthrough finds its path to market and every student entrepreneur finds the support to build a world-class company.
Innovation History
Transforming research into real-world impact across Africa.
Babcock Innovation & Ventures Officially Inaugurated
On April 21, 2026, Babcock Innovation & Ventures was formally inaugurated at the inaugural BIV Innovation Summit — a landmark event attended by 600+ participants including investors, researchers, government officials, and founders. BIV succeeds RIIC and BEC as the unified commercialization engine of Babcock University, launching with ₦100M ($62.5K) in committed pilot funding, 12 annual programs, 3 innovation tracks, and a mandate to become Africa's leading university venture ecosystem.
Launch Highlights
Leadership Team
Meet the dedicated professionals driving BIV's mission to transform research into real-world impact.
Prof. Richard Olusegun
Director, Babcock Innovation & Ventures
A visionary academic entrepreneur with 20+ years bridging university research and industry. Prof. Olusegun has overseen the commercialization of 60+ innovations and the launch of 42 startups from Babcock University.
Dr. Blessing Okonkwo
Head of Startup Development
Former startup founder and venture builder, Dr. Okonkwo leads the incubation and acceleration programs that have produced 18 investment-ready ventures in the past three years.
Mr. Emeka Chukwu
Head of Industry Partnerships
With a background in corporate strategy and business development, Emeka has forged 156 industry partnerships that have channeled over $28M into BIV ventures.
Dr. Adaora Nwosu
Head of Research Commercialization
A technology transfer specialist with expertise in IP management and licensing, Dr. Nwosu has secured 47 patents and facilitated 12 licensing agreements with global corporations.
Mr. Tayo Adeyemi
Head of Investor Relations
A seasoned finance professional with deep networks in venture capital and private equity, Tayo connects BIV startups with the right investors at the right stage.
Ms. Chidinma Obi
Head of Community & Events
A community builder and innovation ecosystem specialist, Chidinma organizes BIV's flagship events including the annual Innovation Summit and Demo Day that attract 2,000+ attendees.
Our Partners
Industry leaders collaborating with BIV to drive innovation.
Get in Touch with BIV
Whether you're a researcher, investor, industry partner or student — we'd love to hear from you.