Tope Dare’s Built to Close Launches: A Blueprint for FinTech Success
Africa’s fintech trailblazer, Tope Dare, has ignited inspiration with the launch of his book, Built to Close: His Journey Selling Technology That Reshaped Africa’s Banking. Unveiled on August 23, 2025, in Lagos, Nigeria, this milestone event captivated industry leaders and aspiring professionals alike.
A Launch Fueled by Purpose
The launch took place at All Souls’ Anglican Church in Lekki, blending reverence and ambition. Starting with a heartfelt church service, the event saw hundreds of attendees, including global banking executives and fintech pioneers, arrive promptly via an efficient e-pass system. The atmosphere was electric, with choral performances and sermons framing Dare’s journey as one of faith and impact. Proceeds from the event supported the Tope Dare Charity Foundation, aiding education, healthcare, and energy access for underserved communities.
Inside Built to Close
Built to Close encapsulates Dare’s 25-year career in high-ticket sales and fintech innovation. Written to mark his 50th birthday, the book distills lessons from deploying over 15,000 ATMs across Nigeria, transforming banking access. It offers practical strategies for closing complex deals and building wealth, aimed at professionals in tech and finance. Within eight days of its release, 432 of 750 printed copies sold, with the e-book available on Amazon and print copies via Dare’s website. Early readers have called it a “game-changer” for career growth.
Who is Tope Dare?
Nicknamed “Africa’s ATM King,” Dare revolutionized Nigeria’s banking sector. As a leader at Inlaks, he grew the company’s ATM market share from 2% to 52% between 2010 and 2023. His contributions earned him the 2022 FinTech Salesman of the Year award. Beyond business, his foundation’s initiatives, like a 100-bed solar-powered hostel donated in 2022, reflect his commitment to social impact.
Voices of Praise and Critique
The launch buzzed on platforms like X, with attendees describing it as “a masterclass in vision.” Industry leaders like Joseph Nnanna praised Dare’s professionalism, predicting the book’s global influence. However, some X users noted the premium pricing of print copies, urging wider accessibility for young professionals. Overall, the book has sparked excitement in sales and fintech communities.
Why U.S. Readers Should Care
Built to Close offers universal insights for U.S. sales and fintech professionals navigating a $1.2 trillion market by 2030. Dare’s strategies for high-stakes deals align with America’s push for digital banking innovation. His work strengthens U.S.-Africa tech partnerships, potentially opening doors for American startups in emerging markets. His philanthropy also echoes U.S. trends in blending business with social good, inspiring leaders to drive impact.
A Vision for the Future
Tope Dare’s Built to Close is more than a book—it’s a roadmap for success in a digital world. As his foundation uplifts communities and his insights empower professionals, Dare’s legacy resonates globally. U.S. readers can grab the book on Amazon to unlock its transformative potential.