12 Comments

This is really insightful and it really helps understand more about VC funding especially in media. Thanks for this

Expand full comment

You're welcome. Thank you for reading!

Expand full comment

I took a lot from this piece, and it makes me wonder if independent digital media platforms in Nigeria can thrive best by employing less in-house staff and building a network of paid contributors. Expert contributors, if they want to consistently deliver quality. The Republic uses this model. But, of course, it comes with limitations. How, for instance, do young journalists get their foot in the door if every publication takes this approach? How does the company cater to other areas of its media needs (like video/audio content) if it mostly relies on external contributions?

To the former, I’ll say: A company that takes this approach can create educational programs for young journalists/writers. Train them and provide them with opportunities for growth. These writers can also join their network of contributors.

To the latter: it’ll mostly depend on the stage of the company. Most media companies don’t at once start by producing content in all formats, more so for the new ones with little to no funding. So, media companies would need to work with their vision/priorities here.

Second thought (very random): I’d love to see more video content from these publications. There are lots of unexplored topics, but I do understand the peculiarities of making quality video content with little funding, and in an environment like Nigeria.

Thanks for writing!

Expand full comment

Very solid comment. Lots of things to think about and explore. Thank you for sharing!

Expand full comment

Wow I didn't know about the communique learning circle. Imagine lol

Unlike Rafat Ali's Op-ed comment i believe digital media companies with access to mega funds should be able to cover breadth and depth.

Hmm love this piece about BCM, really shows they're trying to move a needle in Africa, For Africa's ecosystem

Expand full comment

Enjoyed this! Thanks Communiqué 👍🏾

Expand full comment

Thank, Marvin!

Expand full comment

Humm... I am curious about the research that went into this. The "behind the scenes" of this article. I am very curious because these points are not shallow. They are very constructive and tailored to the subject company.

Are they external observations?

Expand full comment

I enjoyed reading this. Can I still be a part of the Communique Learning Circle.

Expand full comment

Hi David. We've closed applications for this cohort, but the next one opens in July.

Expand full comment

Alright, thank you David. I would be on the lookout for the next one.

Expand full comment