Innovation is no longer defined by geography. Across emerging markets, new startup ecosystems are rising, from coworking spaces and angel communities to founders building globally relevant companies from unexpected places. These cities are no longer waiting for recognition. They are creating their own gravity.
“This is why I’m launching Startup City, a bi-weekly column focused on startup ecosystems, founder realities, capital flow, and the future of innovation across emerging cities”.
Why This Column Exists
“In startup conversations, the headlines often celebrate funding rounds or unicorn announcements. But the real story lies beneath, in the systems, culture, and community dynamics that either enable or suppress innovation.”
Startup City will explore:
Ecosystem Intelligence – What makes one city emerge as a startup hub while others struggle?
Founder Realities – The psychology, strategy, and pressure behind building in emerging markets.
Capital & Policy – Where the money is moving, who controls it, and how it shapes the future.
From the Desk of the Author
“I experiment with disruptive ideas, but I keep them rooted in data, behavior, and real market signals. Every ecosystem has a rhythm, my work is to decode it, analyze it, and present it in a way that founders, investors, and operators can act on.”
My approach as a writer and ecosystem strategist is built on four pillars:
Analytical Thinker – I search for patterns beneath the noise.
Detail-Oriented Strategist – Narratives must be accurate, not assumed.
Visual Enthusiast – Insights must be seen, not just read.
Community-Driven Communicator – Innovation is collaborative, not isolated
To follow the journey, connect with me:
https://www.instagram.com/folajomiadegbulugbe?igsh=MWFtc3Z1bDZjbWYweA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
A Final Word
“This isn’t just a column. It’s a lens into the future of innovation. Cities are rising. Founders are building. Ecosystems are forming in real time, and Startup City will tell that story.”
Startup City will be published on Friday across our platform and shared on my professional channels.