Transforming Nigerian Youths
SARA BY WEMA, in collaboration with Enterprise Development Centre (EDC), and MasterCard Foundation proudly presents a transformative initiative aimed at equipping Nigerian youths, especially female entrepreneurs, with essential entrepreneurial and managerial skills.
About This Training
The Transforming Nigerian Youths Program offers comprehensive training and support to young Nigerian entrepreneurs, focusing particularly on female entrepreneurs aged 18 - 35 years. Through a combination of enterprise training, access to grants, market access support, and personalized mentoring, participants will be equipped with tools and knowledge needed to succeed in today’s competitive business landscape.
The program features a 15-working day, self-paced virtual training designed to equip participants with essential business skills, supplemented by interactive workshops and seminars to deepen understanding and practical application of the materials learned.
The apex of the program is a grand pitchathon, where participants will be allowed to pitch their business ideas to a panel of credible judges. This final stage not only showcases participants’ innovations but also provides them with critical feedback and the chance to win grant awards or secure further mentorship and funding opportunities from potential investors who will also attend the pitchathon program.
Key Highlights
Free Enterprise Training
Free enterprise training for 50,000 young women business
Access to Market
Gain access to free and discounted slots in trade fairs and exhibitions to showcase your products and services.
Personalized Support Services
Receive personalized support from SMEDAN-certified Business Development Support Providers (BDSPs) to help you navigate challenges and capitalize on opportunities.
Seed Grants
Stand a chance to receive grant award of up to N5,000,000 to kickstart or scale your business ventures.
Empowering Nigerian Youths
With the Transforming Nigerian Youths Program, we aim to:
Promote youth empowerment and entrepreneurship development.
Foster economic growth and innovation across diverse sectors.
Equip young Nigerians with vital business skills and knowledge.
Create a network of entrepreneurial change-makers driving positive impact.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about this training
What is the Transforming Nigerian Youth Program?
The Transforming Nigerian Youth Program is a comprehensive training and support initiative aimed at empowering young Nigerian entrepreneurs, particularly women, with essential business skills and knowledge.
Who is eligible to participate in the program?
The program targets young Nigerians aged 18 to 35, with a specific focus on women entrepreneurs, across various sectors of the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
What does the program offer?
The program offers free enterprise training, access to market programs, personalized support services, access to finance, and market access support through trade fairs and exhibitions.
How can I apply for the program?
Applications are typically announced via the bank's social media platforms, external emails, and third-party media platforms. Interested individuals can apply by following the application guidelines provided during the application period.
Is there any cost associated with participating in the program?
No, the program is free of charge for eligible participants. There are no application fees or training costs involved.
What languages are the training sessions conducted in?
Training sessions are available in four indigenous Nigerian languages to cater to learners in underserved locations. Additionally, technology that does not require data is utilized for easy accessibility.
How are beneficiaries selected for seed grants and other support services?
Beneficiaries are selected based on predefined criteria, including their active participation in the training program and the quality of their business plans. Seed grants and support services are awarded to eligible participants through a transparent selection process and having a WEMA Bank account is a major eligibility criterion to win the grant award.
What support is provided to graduates of the program?
Graduates receive ongoing support through personalized assistance from Business Development Support Providers (BDSPs), access to market opportunities, and guidance on accessing single-digit loans for business expansion.
How long does the program last?
The training is self-paced and lasts 15 working days. Participants can start at any time within a 3-month period. Support and additional sessions will be available beyond the initial training to ensure lasting impact.
How can I stay updated on program announcements and activities?
Stay connected with SARABYWEMA'S social media channels, visit our website sara.wemabank.com regularly, and subscribe to our newsletters for the latest updates on program announcements, application deadlines, and other relevant information.