In a landmark achievement for African-led innovation, KODU has emerged as the Grand Prize Winner of the “Jump Shot: The NBPA × UM6P Innovation Challenge”, a flagship initiative under the One Court Africa program. This victory places KODU at the forefront of transformative startups in Africa, recognized for its innovative solutions and commitment to driving social and economic impact.
The “Jump Shot” challenge brought together a diverse pool of startups from across Africa and the diaspora, each presenting pioneering ideas aimed at solving real-world problems. KODU’s success in this prestigious competition is a testament to the team’s hard work, ingenuity, and dedication to using innovation as a tool for change.

As the top winner, KODU was awarded a $50,000 grant courtesy of the NBPA Foundation, UM6P, Fondation OCP, Stargate, and One Court Africa. This critical funding will empower KODU to scale up its operations, enhance its product offerings, and increase its presence across Ghana and West Africa.
Winning the Grand Prize will allow KODU to:
- Scale its products and services to reach more communities across Ghana and the West African subregion.
- Expand its mentorship network, gaining insights from top minds in and beyond the sports industry.
- Champion youth employment and circular economy solutions, reinforcing its commitment to inclusive, sustainable development.
The final stage of the competition was held in Benguerir, Morocco, giving finalists, including KODU, the rare opportunity to pitch before a high-profile panel comprising NBA legends, current players, global dignitaries, and seasoned investors. The event provided direct access to strategic partnerships and global visibility.
KODU’s triumph at the “Jump Shot” challenge underscores the potential of African startups to innovate for impact. With fresh funding, global mentorship, and expanded exposure, KODU is poised to take its solutions to the next level—empowering youth, promoting sustainability, and setting new benchmarks for innovation across the continent.