From Upwork’s Loss to Startup Success: Growwr Redefines Freelance Hiring

A Nigerian entrepreneur has turned a personal setback into a game-changing opportunity, launching Growwr, a platform designed to revolutionize how businesses connect with Africa’s top freelance talent. Inspired by a frustrating experience with Upwork’s suspension of Nigerian freelancers, the startup’s founder, Oluwatoyin Oyewole, is on a mission to create a seamless, secure, and locally tailored hiring solution for the continent’s growing gig economy.

Growwr, a sleek online marketplace, bridges the gap between African freelancers and global employers, offering a streamlined alternative to international platforms. Unlike its competitors, the platform prioritizes user verification, transparent pricing, and swift dispute resolution, ensuring trust and efficiency for both sides. With a focus on African talent, Growwr showcases professionals in fields like tech, design, and content creation, tapping into the continent’s vibrant creative and digital workforce.

Oyewole’s journey began when Upwork’s abrupt policy changes left many Nigerian freelancers locked out, sparking widespread frustration. Seeing an opportunity to fill the void, she launched Growwr to empower local talent while addressing the unique needs of African markets. “We’re building a platform that understands our realities and celebrates our skills,” Oyewole said, emphasizing the need for a homegrown solution that doesn’t rely on foreign gatekeepers.

The platform has already gained traction, with thousands of freelancers signing up and businesses praising its intuitive interface. Growwr’s escrow payment system ensures secure transactions, while its rigorous vetting process guarantees quality hires. Industry analysts see it as a bold step toward positioning Africa as a hub for freelance talent, especially as remote work continues to surge globally.

Beyond its practical features, Growwr carries a deeper mission: to reshape perceptions of African professionals. By offering a reliable and accessible platform, Oyewole aims to showcase the continent’s talent pool to the world, fostering opportunities that keep wealth and skills circulating locally. The startup also plans to roll out training programs to upskill freelancers, ensuring they remain competitive in a fast-evolving digital landscape.

As Growwr gains momentum, it’s clear that Oyewole’s vision is more than just a business—it’s a movement to empower African freelancers and redefine the global gig economy. For those sidelined by international platforms, this homegrown solution is a beacon of opportunity, proving that innovation can rise from adversity.