About BAE

Building a lasting bridge between two homes.

Buckeye Africa Exchange (BAE) was incorporated in July 2026 as an Ohio nonprofit corporation, organized exclusively for charitable, educational, cultural, exchange, workforce development, partnership, and humanitarian purposes.

Founded July 2026 EIN 42-4075603 Ohio Nonprofit · ORC Ch. 1702 501(c)(3) purposes Based in Columbus, OH

Our Mission

"To foster transformative partnerships between Ohio and Africa by advancing trade, investment, education, tourism, innovation, and cultural diplomacy that create shared economic prosperity and lasting relationships."

Our Vision

"To become the leading US–Africa exchange platform, recognized as the premier gateway connecting Ohio and Africa through business, culture, education, innovation, tourism, and strategic partnerships — and beyond."

Our Purpose

Why we exist.

BAE advances strategic partnerships between Ohio and Africa that create opportunities, strengthen communities, and accelerate sustainable economic growth through coordinated development in trade, investment, education, tourism, entrepreneurship, and innovation. We do this as a nonprofit — which means every partnership, program, and dollar is measured by the value it creates for the communities on both sides of the Atlantic.

Core Values

The principles that guide our work.

Integrity

We build trust through transparency and accountability.

Excellence

We pursue world-class standards in everything we do.

Collaboration

Strong partnerships create greater impact.

Innovation

We champion creative solutions and entrepreneurship.

Cultural Pride

We celebrate heritage while embracing global perspectives.

Inclusivity

Opportunities should benefit everyone.

Service

We measure success by the value we create for communities.

How We Work

What BAE is empowered to do.

As a nonprofit corporation, BAE is authorized to receive grants, gifts, and donations; enter into contracts, MOUs, and strategic alliances; award scholarships and fellowships; and organize the programs that carry out our mission.

01 Organize trade missions, conferences, cultural events, and international exchange programs.
02 Award scholarships, fellowships, educational assistance, and research support.
03 Provide consulting and technical assistance in furtherance of our exempt purposes.
04 Enter into cooperative agreements, MOUs, and public-private partnerships.

Leadership

Founded by two builders of bridges.

BAE was formally incorporated by two founding members based in Central Ohio.

Edward Sumaila

Co-Founder and Incorporator

One of two founding incorporators of Buckeye Africa Exchange, based in the Columbus, Ohio area.

Joseph Asante