Innovation 4.0 is more than a conference — it's a startup empowerment movement. Designed to ignite creativity, inspire collaboration, and accelerate innovation, we empower Africa’s next generation of founders, creators, and changemakers to unlock their full potential.
Our mission is to empower Africa’s next generation of innovators, creators, and entrepreneurs — providing the tools, mentorship, and ecosystem they need to build scalable, impactful startups. Through our annual Innovation Conference, incubation programs, and innovation challenges, we connect bright minds with investors, technology leaders, and change-makers who believe in Africa’s potential.
We exist to spark ideas and transform them into sustainable ventures — bridging creativity, technology, and purpose. By creating a thriving community of problem-solvers, we’re building the foundation for a future where African solutions shape the global narrative.
Our vision is to build Africa’s most vibrant innovation ecosystem — one where creativity meets opportunity, and every young visionary has access to the resources needed to turn ideas into impact.
We envision a continent where startups born out of curiosity and collaboration redefine industries, create jobs, and drive inclusive growth.
Through mentorship, partnerships, and continuous learning, we aim to inspire a generation of leaders who are bold enough to innovate locally and compete globally — shaping a sustainable future for all.
John Ogunjide is a visionary leader, entrepreneur, and advocate for innovation and personal transformation. With a passion for empowering individuals to reach their full potential, he founded the Innovation Conference as a platform to connect thinkers, creators, and change-makers. Under his leadership, the conference has grown into one of the most anticipated events, inspiring thousands across industries.
President (Innovation Conference, Ajayi Crowther University)
Vice-president (School of Innovation)
Vice-president (Administration)
Global Director
Vice President (Cornerstone International Foundation)
Public Relation Officer
Volunteer's Team Lead
Treasurer
Speakers Management
Speakers Management
Director of Media
Media Team
Media Team
Media Team
Welfare
Assistant Welfare
Sponsorship & Partnership
Delicate Registration and Communication
Registration Team
Registration Team
Publicity & PR
Ushering Lead
Social Media Manager
Protocol Team Lead
Host
Content Writer (Innovation conference)
Creative Director
Website Developer
Project-based Learning Coordinator (School of Innovation)
Financial Team Lead (School of Innovation)
Over the years, the Innovation Conference has evolved into a leading platform for visionaries, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders to exchange groundbreaking ideas. Each edition has pushed boundaries, inspired change, and empowered individuals to unlock their full potential. Here’s a look at how far we’ve come.
With 3.0, the Innovation movement matured. The focus wasn’t just on dreams anymore, it was on building. This edition was about intentionality, long-term vision, and the systems required to sustain progress. The conference challenged attendees to stop chasing trends and start creating structures. It was about future-proofing ideas and building with legacy in mind.
Innovation 3.0 brought together strategic thinkers, entrepreneurs, technologists, and visionaries who didn’t just speak about the future, they showed how to build for it. Delegates were mentored on innovation, resilience, excellence, and sustainability. Every keynote, panel, and breakout session reinforced one truth: the future doesn’t happen by chance, it’s built. And this generation has the blueprint. From that edition, many attendees stepped into projects, businesses, and initiatives that continue to thrive today.
The second edition was an awakening. Innovation 2.0 dared participants to stop sitting on their gifts and start using them to shift the world. It moved beyond inspiration into activation, deliberately equipping attendees with the tools, mindset, and motivation to take bold steps toward personal and societal transformation. It reminded everyone that their uniqueness wasn’t accidental; it was designed for influence.
This conference gathered dreamers, creatives, builders, and leaders under one roof to explore how potential could be translated into measurable impact. The sessions were action-driven, the atmosphere charged with purpose, and the stories shared ignited faith in what was possible. Innovation 2.0 was a turning point for many. It birthed confidence, stirred bold decisions, and fueled a generation of changemakers who began to see their lives as solutions to problems both local and global.
The birth of Innovation Conference began with a bold yet simple idea: let’s talk about it. This first edition was a call to break the silence and dismantle the fears surrounding purpose, leadership, and growth. It created a safe space where questions were welcomed, curiosity was celebrated, and young people were encouraged to speak their truths. Conversations ranged from personal struggles to societal transformation, sparking reflection and intentional thinking in the hearts of every attendee.
What made Innovation 1.0 powerful wasn’t just the dialogue, it was the realization that everyone had a voice that mattered. Through thought-provoking sessions, honest panel discussions, and an atmosphere charged with hope, participants left feeling lighter, freer, and more connected. It was a foundational moment where the seed of community and transformation was planted. “Let’s Talk About It” wasn’t just a theme, it was a cultural shift.
The Innovation Conference is an initiative of Cornerstone International Foundation, committed to equipping young Africans with the mindset, mentorship, and resources needed to build sustainable, high-impact ventures. Through our programs, partnerships, and innovation challenges, we are cultivating a new generation of visionary leaders who use technology and creativity to drive positive change across the continent.
