Following the onslaught of the COVID-19 pandemic on the shores of Ghana, many local businesses have been severely affected, with some having to wind up entirely. To stem this tide, Facio Innovations Technology (Faciotech), launched an initiative designed to help mitigate the impact of the virus on local enterprises across the country.
The Challenge Facing Ghanaian Businesses
The pandemic fundamentally disrupted how businesses in Ghana operate. Lockdowns, social distancing measures, and reduced foot traffic meant that many enterprises — particularly small and medium-sized businesses — saw their revenue drop dramatically overnight. Traditional brick-and-mortar operations that had not yet established an online presence were hit hardest, with some losing up to 80% of their customer base during peak restriction periods.
For startups and newly established firms, the timing was especially cruel. Businesses that had just invested their savings into launching were suddenly unable to reach customers or generate the revenue needed to survive their critical first year.
The 360 Project
Speaking to the host of TV Africa's Breakfastlive morning show, Paa Kwesi Schandorf, the Chief Executive Officer of Faciotech, Urbanus Wedaaba Azupogo, bemoaned the rate at which many local firms are struggling to make ends meet following the outbreak of the pandemic in Ghana in March of the previous year.
According to him, given the alarming rate at which several local establishments are succumbing to the sting of the pandemic, it is necessary for pragmatic measures to be instituted to help salvage the gains of these struggling local firms. In his view, businesses must endeavour to leverage social media and the online digital space to ensure their survival amidst the complications occasioned by the pandemic — hence the "360 Project".
The 360 Project is a novel initiative tailored to support local businesses, particularly startup firms. With the payment of an initial GH¸555.00, a startup business owner is entitled to:
- A professionally designed business logo — creating a strong first impression and brand identity
- An interactive website — establishing the business's online presence and enabling digital customer engagement
- A branded letterhead — adding professionalism to all business correspondence
- A colourful brochure — facilitating business engagements and advertisement purposes
Beyond the 360 Project
Mr. Azupogo also intimated that, apart from the 360 Project, his outfit Facio Innovations Technology is also willing to assist existing businesses with all their software, IT, branding, and computer-related concerns on very moderate terms. This includes website design and development, web hosting, and digital marketing services designed to help businesses transition to online operations.
Impact and Results
With over 60 businesses having already benefited from the project at the time of the announcement, the initiative demonstrated that affordable, bundled digital services can make a real difference for businesses navigating economic uncertainty. Many of these businesses reported increased customer enquiries and sales within weeks of launching their new websites and branding materials.
Mr. Azupogo urged existing firms to adopt radical online measures to sustain their activities. He further advised the general public to adhere religiously to all the relevant COVID-19 safety protocols as the country continued to navigate its way out of the pandemic.
The 360 Project remains a testament to how technology companies can step up during times of crisis and use their expertise to support the broader business community. For businesses looking to establish or strengthen their online presence today, contact Faciotech to learn about our current service offerings.
