Our Vision
To be the leading catalyst for innovation and entrepreneurship in Africa, driving sustainable growth and prosperity in Guinea-Bissau and beyond.
About Us
Innovating & Impacting since 2015.
InnovaLab is a dynamic organization driving innovation and sustainable development in Guinea-Bissau and abroad.
We empower entrepreneurs, support businesses, and collaborate with governments to create impactful programs and initiatives. Our comprehensive services include investment and financing, capacity building, support for innovation hubs, incubators and accelerators, and specialized consulting. By fostering a vibrant ecosystem of innovation, InnovaLab is accelerating growth, creating decent jobs, and making a positive impact on society.
Our Mission
To empower individuals and organizations through technology, capacity building, financing, mentorship and partnerships to create innovative solutions and drive economic development.
Our Guiding Principles and Objectives
InnovaLab is dedicated to combating poverty by empowering marginalized communities through entrepreneurship and innovation. By providing access to financial services and supporting the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises, InnovaLab contributes to poverty reduction and economic development.
InnovaLab support high-quality education and skills development programs to equip young people with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in the 21st century. By promoting inclusive education and lifelong learning, InnovaLab aims to create a more educated and skilled workforce.
InnovaLab is committed to gender equality and women's empowerment. By providing targeted support to women entrepreneurs and leaders, InnovaLab helps to break down gender barriers and create a more equitable society.
InnovaLab promotes sustainable economic growth by fostering job creation, supporting businesses, and advocating for fair labor practices. By creating a conducive environment for entrepreneurship and innovation, InnovaLab contributes to the development of a strong and resilient economy.
InnovaLab drives innovation and technological advancement by supporting startups, incubators, and accelerators. By investing in infrastructure development and promoting sustainable industrialization, InnovaLab contributes to a more prosperous and sustainable future.
InnovaLab supports sustainable urban development by promoting green technologies, smart city initiatives, and community engagement. By creating inclusive and resilient cities, InnovaLab helps to improve the quality of life for urban residents.
Our Approaches
Our comprehensive Strategy - DEST
InnovaLab adopts a holistic and interconnected strategy for sustainable development, integrating Development, Entrepreneurship, Sustainability, and Technologies (DEST) in its initiatives and projects. This comprehensive approach enables the organization to enhance its influence and aid in constructing a fairer, more equitable, and robust future for all.
Participatory Design - Design Thinking
InnovaLab engages in participatory analyses with local communities to identify their challenges, needs, and aspirations. This approach guarantees that projects are collaboratively developed, with beneficiaries at the core of solutions, ensuring that initiatives align with beneficiaries' actual demands, in accordance with the principles of Design Thinking.
Our Team
Chairs
Claudinécia Cabral
Co-founder & CEO
Combines business expertise and social impact. With an MBA from Northwestern and experience in finance and telecom, she leads our strategy, leveraging technology for economic growth.
Adulai Bary
Co-founder & Chairman
A tech and business leader with expertise in digital transformation, project management, and business intelligence. His certifications and experience drive innovation in Guinea-Bissau.
Maria Mendes
COO
Ensures smooth operations at InnovaLab. With expertise in event management and executive support, she is highly organized and committed to impact.
Abdulai Sombille Djaló
Think Tank & Capacity Building Officer
Specializes in economics and development, leading research and training initiatives to drive innovative solutions.
Liliana Correia
CMO
Specializes in marketing and communication. With a background in digital marketing and entrepreneurship, she drives brand strategy and engagement.
Laurentino Correia
Digital Programs Officer
Specializes in web and mobile development, blockchain, and AI, leading InnovaLab’s digital initiatives.