About this episode
How do you build an entrepreneurial ecosystem that empowers an entire generation?
In this episode of From Garage to Growth, we sit down with Dr. Houda Ghozzi, founder and CEO of Open Startup (OST), to explore how she’s helping shape the future of entrepreneurship across Africa.
After beginning her career in academia, Dr. Ghozzi recognised a critical gap between universities and industry. Rather than accepting the disconnect, she founded Open Startup—an organisation dedicated to equipping young entrepreneurs with the skills, networks, and opportunities they need to build impactful businesses.
Today, OST works with founders, universities, corporations, and investors to strengthen Africa’s innovation ecosystem and support the next generation of entrepreneurs.
From Academia to Entrepreneurship
Dr. Ghozzi’s journey began in higher education.
She reflects on why she transitioned from academia into ecosystem building, the challenges she encountered, and how education can become a powerful catalyst for innovation when connected to real-world entrepreneurship.
Bridging the Gap Between Universities and Industry
One of the biggest barriers facing young entrepreneurs is the disconnect between education and business.
Dr. Ghozzi explains how Open Startup works to connect students, researchers, startups, and industry partners, creating practical pathways that transform ideas into scalable ventures.
Building Africa’s Innovation Ecosystem
Strong startups don’t grow in isolation they thrive within strong ecosystems.
We discuss the importance of collaboration between founders, investors, policymakers, universities, and the private sector, and why ecosystem building is essential to unlocking Africa’s entrepreneurial potential.
Empowering the Next Generation
Through accelerators, innovation programmes, and cross-border initiatives, Open Startup is helping young founders develop the skills and confidence to launch businesses that solve meaningful challenges.
Dr. Ghozzi shares what she has learned from working with entrepreneurs across the continent and why investing in people is one of the most powerful ways to create long-term impact.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Reflecting on her journey, Dr. Ghozzi offers practical advice for founders looking to build purpose-driven businesses, embrace collaboration, and create solutions that make a lasting difference.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, student, ecosystem builder, or passionate about Africa’s innovation future, this episode offers valuable insights into how entrepreneurship can drive sustainable development across the continent.
About the Guest
Dr. Houda Ghozzi is the founder and CEO of Open Startup (OST), a non-profit organisation dedicated to strengthening Africa’s entrepreneurial ecosystem by connecting universities, startups, investors, and industry to support the next generation of innovators.