The Ugwumba Enterprise Challenge is an innovative pitch and grant competition designed to support young Africans in transforming their ideas, skills, and passions into successful business ventures or social enterprises.
We chose this competition format to test and nurture the creativity and boldness of young entrepreneurs, helping them to thrive in the business world.
Applicants must complete a mandatory Boot Camp and Pitching Competitions. Those with the most compelling business ideas will receive both financial aid and technical support.
The Ugwumba Center for Leadership Development in Africa, established in Nigeria in 2018, is a non-political, non-discriminatory, and non-profit organization dedicated to developing a new generation of leaders and entrepreneurs across Africa.
We envision an Africa where young people and women drive democratic and economic advancement, establishing peaceful democracies and prosperous business ventures.
Since its inception, our Challenge has created employment opportunities for over 20,000 Nigerian youths. For the 7th edition of the Challenge, we aim to support an additional 2,000 young entrepreneurs with business development training, small grants, and mentorship.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Applicants must be Nigerian residents, aged 18 to 40 years.
- You should have a viable idea that can evolve into a business or social enterprise.
There are no restrictions regarding industry sectors, as all are crucial for national development. Whether your interest lies in agriculture, food technology, renewable energy, information technology, health technology, telecommunications, or another field, you are welcome to apply.
We are especially interested in early-stage startups and individuals at the ideation stage, as we seek to provide support to those whose ideas might not otherwise reach fruition without the impact investment provided by the Ugwumba Enterprise Challenge.
Benefits:
Participants have the chance to win one of the following prizes:
- 1st Prize: N2 million
- 2nd Prize: N1 million
- 3rd Prize: N700,000
- 4th Prize: N500,000
- 5th Prize: N300,000
- Consolation Prizes: N100,000 each for the 6th to 10th finalists
Application Deadline: September 11, 2024
