In Ghana’s rental market, high costs, fraudulent activities, and access disparities have long been challenges for tenants and landlords alike. Many young people struggle to secure affordable housing, while landlords face issues of trust and transparency. Recognizing this problem firsthand, three ambitious entrepreneurs—Sylvester Amoako Yegoe, Claude Amadu, and Priscilla Eshun—were determined to create a solution. But having an idea was just the beginning; they needed the right skills, mentorship, and resources to bring their vision to life.
Sylvester, being interviewed for selection into the GIZ Business Idea Competition
A Dream in Search of Direction
For Sylvester Amoako Yegoe, Claude Amadu , and Priscilla, the dream of Ready Rent Ghana was born from personal frustration. They had seen friends and family struggle with landlords demanding high upfront payments, fraudulent rental deals, and a lack of accessible rental options. But how could they turn this problem into an innovative, tech-driven business?
Their turning point came when they joined Duapa Werkspace’s six-week mobile app training cohort. Here, they learned how to build a digital platform, design user-friendly experiences, and refine their business strategy. More than just acquiring technical skills, they found a community that believed in their vision.
The Power of Incubation
With newfound confidence, they transitioned into Duapa Werkspace’s incubation program, where they received mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs, business coaching, and access to a vibrant startup ecosystem. There were challenges—developing the right business model, securing early adopters, and finding funding. But through perseverance and the support of the program, they fine-tuned their approach and built a working prototype.
A Game-Changing Opportunity with GIZ
Their journey took an unexpected but rewarding turn in October-November 2022 when Duapa Werkspace partnered with GIZ to host the GIZ Business Idea Competition in the Western Region. Ready Rent Ghana was among the 50 startups shortlisted for this highly competitive program.
The competition provided intensive training and much-needed equipment for the startups. For the Ready Rent team, receiving a brand-new laptop from GIZ was more than just getting a device—it was an investment in their vision. It meant they could now fully develop their platform, test new features, and work efficiently.
Sylvester, pitching for Laptop from GIZ Business Idea Competition
The Defining Moment: Startup Takoradi 2024
The biggest breakthrough came at Startup Takoradi 2024, a flagship event by Duapa Werkspace that connects startups with investors and industry experts. With everything they had learned, the Ready Rent Ghana team pitched their solution with confidence, sharing their journey, their struggles, and their vision for a more transparent rental market in Ghana.
Their passion resonated with the audience, and one investor was so impressed that they not only provided funding but also offered them office space to scale their operations. This was the validation they had worked so hard for.
A Mentor Who Made a Difference
Entrepreneurship is a journey filled with challenges, but having the right mentor makes all the difference. Sylvester Amoako Yegoe, co-founder of Ready Rent Ghana, reflected on the impact of mentorship:
From Idea to Impact
What started as just an idea has now grown into a fully operational business that is reshaping the rental industry in Ghana. Today, Ready Rent Ghana employs seven full-time workers and supports 17 indirect workers, creating opportunities in real estate and technology. Their platform is helping individuals and businesses access secure, affordable, and fraud-free rental services.
Through skills training, incubation, and a supportive ecosystem, Duapa Werkspace transformed a group of aspiring entrepreneurs into industry disruptors. This success story is a testament to the power of investing in youth-led innovation and fostering a thriving startup culture.
The Future of Ready Rent Ghana
With the right backing, Ready Rent Ghana is now positioned to scale further, reaching more underserved communities and expanding its impact in the rental sector. Their journey is not just about business success; it’s about proving that with the right support, young entrepreneurs can solve real-world problems and create lasting change.
At Duapa Werkspace, we believe in nurturing ideas and turning them into thriving businesses, and Ready Rent Ghana is a shining example of that mission in action.
Their story is a beacon of hope for other young entrepreneurs: Dream big, seek knowledge, stay persistent, and the right opportunities will find you.
Special Thanks
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to GIZ, Gideon Mankralo, and STEPHANE Abbas Miezan for their unwavering support. Your contributions have made our work at Duapa Werkspace much easier, empowering us to continue fostering innovation and transforming ideas into successful businesses. Thank you for being a part of this journey!
