Buckeye Africa Exchange (BAE)

Programs and Strategic Objectives

Seven objectives. One shared future.

Every BAE program traces back to a strategic objective set out in our founding documents — concrete, measurable ways we build the relationship between Ohio and Africa.

Strategic Objectives

What we're working toward.

01

Increase bilateral trade

Grow the volume and value of trade flowing between Ohio and Africa in both directions.

02

Promote tourism and cultural exchange

Encourage travel, heritage tourism, and cultural programming that brings both communities together.

03

Connect businesses with investment

Link entrepreneurs and companies on both sides with the capital and investors they need to grow.

04

Facilitate educational and workforce partnerships

Build pipelines between schools, universities, and employers in Ohio and Africa.

05

Support entrepreneurs, startups and innovators

Provide mentorship, resources, and networks for founders building the next generation of businesses.

06

Strengthen institutional relationships

Formalize cooperation between governments, universities, and institutions across Ohio and Africa.

07

Elevate Ohio and Africa as strategic global partners

Position both regions as recognized, connected players on the global stage.

Our Five Pillars

How this shows up in practice.

Our strategic objectives translate into concrete programs organized around five pillars: business, culture, tourism, trade, and education.

Business

Mentorship and Investment

Guidance, technical assistance, and investor connections for entrepreneurs and startups.

Culture

Cultural Exchange and Festivals

Events, festivals, and exchange programs that celebrate and share African and Ohioan heritage.

Tourism

Heritage Travel and Tourism

Promoting travel and tourism that connects visitors with destinations on both sides.

Trade

Trade Missions and Delegations

Organized visits and business delegations that put Ohio and African companies in the same room.

Education

Scholarships and Fellowships

Direct financial support and research assistance for students and emerging researchers.

Education

Workforce and Training Partnerships

Programs connecting institutions and employers to build practical, in-demand skills.

Have a program idea or partnership in mind?

We're actively building our first cohort of programs — tell us what you'd like to see.

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