Airotix Technologies has emerged the winner of AngloGold Ashanti’s inaugural Obuasi Business Innovation Challenge, taking home GH¢ 100,000 in seed funding, along with a commemorative plaque and certificate.
The winning team comprises four young innovators from Obuasi, who jointly developed a cutting-edge device that can detect air pollution levels in the environment. Their pitch impressed the judges with its clarity, technical depth, and real-world relevance. 
The competition, organized by AGA, was designed to nurture entrepreneurial talent, promote innovation, and support high-potential enterprises within the Obuasi community. 
Edmund Oduro Agyei, the Community Relations Manager of AngloGold Ashanti applauded the six-month journey that began with 42 applicants and culminated in a final of 10. He emphasized that this Innovation Challenge is a cornerstone of AGA’s 10-Year Socio-Economic Development Plan (SEDP), which seeks to build sustainable jobs, diversify the local economy, and foster long-term community growth.
Mr. Agyei also highlighted AGA’s broader enterprise support framework, which includes skills training and a business acceleration programme. Through these efforts, AGA has trained 1,383 MSMEs — 53% of which are women-led.  The benefits have been clear: some participants have reported significant revenue growth, while others have created new jobs. 
In addition to the top prize, runner-up Oli-Emma Paints received GH¢ 50,000. Charcoal Master placed third (GH¢ 30,000), followed by Lyn Special Kelewele (fourth, GH¢ 20,000) and Joy Engineering (fifth, GH¢ 10,000).  All 42 contestants in the challenge were awarded participation certificates. 
Wesley Akanyako, Operations & Research Officer at Airotix, expressed heartfelt thanks to AGA, pledging to use the funding to further develop their air pollution detection device.