Wema Bank/EDC/Mastercard Transforming Nigerian Youths Program: Empowering Nigerian Entrepreneurs With Grants Up To ₦5 Million

About the Transforming Nigerian Youths Program

Applications are now open for the Transforming Nigerian Youths Program, a groundbreaking initiative by Wema Bank in partnership with the Enterprise Development Centre (EDC) and Mastercard Foundation. This program is dedicated to equipping young Nigerian entrepreneurs with the essential tools, knowledge, and funding to transform their business ideas into thriving ventures.

The Transforming Nigerian Youths Program, driven by SARA BY WEMA, is designed to empower Nigerian youth, particularly female entrepreneurs aged between 18 and 35. This initiative seeks to foster entrepreneurial excellence, build capacity, and create access to critical resources needed for business success.

Comprehensive enterprise training, personalised mentorship, and business development support will benefit participants. The program concludes with an exciting pitchathon, where participants will present their business ideas to judges. Winners will receive grants of up to ₦5 million and additional opportunities such as mentorship, access to affordable loans, and trade fair participation.

Key Features of the Program

Free Enterprise Training: A robust curriculum tailored to enhance entrepreneurial and managerial skills, with a special focus on female entrepreneurs.
Pitchathon: A platform for participants to showcase their business ideas and innovations, with winners receiving grants or mentorship opportunities.

Capacity Building: Training and workshops facilitated by certified Business Development Support Providers (BDSPs).
Access to Networks: Opportunities to connect with investors, mentors, and key players in various industries.
Funding Opportunities: Seed grants of up to ₦5 million for top-performing participants.

Eligibility Criteria for the Transforming Nigerian Youths Program

To be eligible for this program, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Age Range: Be between 18 and 35 years old.
Focus on Women Entrepreneurs: Preference is given to female entrepreneurs engaged in diverse sectors of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

WEMA Bank Account: Applicants must have an active WEMA Bank account to qualify for the grant opportunities.

Required Documents

Applicants are required to provide the following documents as part of their application process:

Valid Identification: Such as a national ID card, passport, or driver’s license.

Proof of Age and Residence: Documentation verifying the applicant’s age and residency in Nigeria.
Business Registration: Evidence of business registration (if applicable).
Business Plan or Idea Proposal: A well-detailed plan highlighting the business idea, goals, and operational strategies.

Benefits of the Transforming Nigerian Youths Program

The Transforming Nigerian Youths Program offers participants a wealth of benefits aimed at fostering entrepreneurial success. These include:

Comprehensive Training:
- Free enterprise training is designed to equip participants with managerial and entrepreneurial skills to start, sustain, and scale their businesses.
- Training is tailored to meet the specific needs of young female entrepreneurs, focusing on real-world challenges and practical solutions.
Access to Trade Fairs and Exhibitions:
- Opportunities to showcase products and services to potential customers, investors, and business partners at local and international trade fairs.

Personalised Mentorship:
- Participants will receive guidance from certified Business Development Support Providers (BDSPs), who will offer tailored advice and solutions.
Seed Grants of up to ₦5 Million:
- Winners of the program’s pitchathon will receive grants to fund or scale their businesses.
- These grants are nonrepayable, ensuring financial freedom for entrepreneurs to innovate and grow.
Access to Affordable Loans:
- Participants will also have access to single-digit loans to further expand their businesses.
Networking Opportunities:
- A chance to connect with industry experts, mentors, investors, and peers for collaboration and learning.

Empowerment for Women Entrepreneurs:
- The program places a strong emphasis on empowering women in business, addressing challenges faced by female entrepreneurs, and providing them with tools to succeed.

Why Join the Program?

The Transforming Nigerian Youths Program is more than just an initiative; it’s a movement to reshape the entrepreneurial landscape of Nigeria. It offers participants:

Practical knowledge to run and grow a business.
Financial empowerment to bring innovative ideas to life.
A supportive network of mentors and peers to ensure sustained growth.

Opportunities to gain exposure and credibility through trade fairs and exhibitions.

How to Apply

To join this transformative program, follow these steps:

Prepare Your Documents: Ensure all required documents are ready for upload, including identification, proof of residence, and a business plan.
Submit Your Application: Applications must be completed before the deadline to be considered for the program.

The Transforming Nigerian Youths Program is an exceptional opportunity for young entrepreneurs to refine their skills, access funding, and scale their businesses while contributing to Nigeria’s economic development.

Apply today and take a bold step towards entrepreneurial success!

CLICK HERE TO APPLY