David N’gambi, the founder of Astanah, an energy technology startup focused on providing sustainable energy solutions for Sub-Saharan Africa, has quickly become a key figure in the region’s growing energy sector. Astanah’s mission to address energy challenges with innovative, locally tailored solutions is gaining momentum, and Mr. N’gambi’s entrepreneurial journey is a testament to his dedication to transforming the energy landscape. As the winner of the 2024 Mentorship Pitch program, Mr. N’gambi’s success story exemplifies the transformative impact of mentorship and investment readiness coaching.

The Mentorship Pitch Program was a 12-week intensive investment readiness initiative designed to equip Zambian startups with the tools and knowledge needed to raise capital and scale their businesses. Sponsored by Zambia Business Angels Network (ZBAN), TVC Labs, and BongoHive, the program culminated in a high-profile event held on December 12, 2024, where Mr. N’gambi was awarded a $5,000 investment. This investment marked a significant milestone for Astanah, affirming the startup’s potential to impact the energy sector.

Reflecting on his experience since completing the program, Mr. N’gambi shared that it has been a turning point for both his business and his leadership growth. “The program gave me invaluable lessons in managing customer relationships, understanding myself as a leader, and navigating complex contracts,” he said. “The mentors’ personal stories were particularly inspiring, and they motivated me to push forward with more clarity and confidence.”

Mentorship was a central component of the program, and for Mr. N’gambi, the relationships built with his mentors have had an enduring impact. One mentor, Michael Tarney, Chair of the Investment Committee at the Zambia Business Angels Network (ZBAN), has been especially instrumental. “Michael was already an investor, and his ongoing guidance has been crucial in shaping my business strategy and understanding the investment landscape,” Mr. N’gambi explained. “His mentorship has helped me build confidence in seeking funding and scaling Astanah.”

In addition to Michael, Mr. N’gambi formed a close relationship with Greg Marchand, Partner at Avencion and Co-Founder of ZBAN, whom he met at a BongoHive event. “Greg has been an invaluable source of advice on how to engage with U.S. investors and position myself strategically in the international market,” said Mr. N’gambi. “His insights have been key to broadening Astanah’s market outlook and refining our approach.”

Beyond mentorship, the program also provided Mr. N’gambi with opportunities to build connections with fellow entrepreneurs. “I’ve formed strong relationships with other participants, and these have been mutually beneficial. One entrepreneur reached out for help structuring a deal, which ultimately helped her secure funding. Another participant focused on loans, and his insights into financing strategies have greatly broadened my understanding of financing options,” Mr. N’gambi shared.

One critical lesson that stood out during the program was the importance of setting realistic expectations. “A mentor told me, ‘Don’t overpromise,’ and that advice has really resonated with me. It taught me the importance of delivering on what I can confidently offer, which has helped build trust with clients,” Mr. N’gambi explained.

As he looks ahead, Mr. N’gambi plans to focus on a project that includes patenting Astanah’s innovative energy solutions. He credits one of his mentors for providing critical advice on intellectual property, which has shaped his approach to protecting the company’s innovations. “The guidance I’ve received on intellectual property has been incredibly valuable. As we scale, it’s important that we protect our intellectual assets, and the program has provided me with the tools to do so,” he said.

When asked whether he would recommend the Mentorship Pitch program to other entrepreneurs, Mr. N’gambi did not hesitate. “Absolutely. I would do it again in a heartbeat,” he said. “The program provided me with insights I didn’t know I needed, and it opened my eyes to areas of my business I had not yet explored. It’s an incredible opportunity for growth, and every entrepreneur should consider it.”

The Mentorship Pitch Program, which culminated in Mr. N’gambi’s $5,000 investment, was an intensive, transformative experience that prepared him to take Astanah to the next level. With the continued support of BongoHive, ZBAN, and TVC Labs, Astanah is poised to make a lasting impact on Sub-Saharan Africa’s energy sector. As David N’gambi’s journey demonstrates, the right mentorship, coupled with the tools and resources to scale, can empower entrepreneurs to turn their vision into reality and drive meaningful change in their industries.

BongoHive, along with its partners, remains committed to supporting Zambian entrepreneurs in their journey toward growth and investment. The success of the Mentorship Pitch Program exemplifies how strategic mentorship and investment readiness coaching are vital for unlocking opportunities and fostering innovation in Zambia’s startup ecosystem.