Apply For Ugwumba Enterprise Challenge (Win Up To N2 Million Prize)
Are you a young, ambitious Nigerian with a business idea that’s been simmering in your mind? The Ugwumba Enterprise Challenge has an opportunity just for you!
This unique idea-pitching and grant competition is all about empowering young Africans to transform their skills and passions into thriving businesses or impactful social enterprises.
So, why did we go with a pitching competition? Simple. It pushes young people to stretch their creativity and entrepreneurial spirit to the limit, encouraging them to think outside the box and take bold steps towards success.
Every applicant goes through a mandatory Boot Camp and a series of Pitching Competitions. Those who present the best business ideas not only receive financial support but also gain access to technical resources to help them succeed.
About Ugwumba Enterprise Challenge
The Ugwumba Center for Leadership Development in Africa, founded in Nigeria in 2018, is a non-political, non-discriminatory, and non-profit organization.
Our mission? To foster a new generation of leaders and entrepreneurs across Africa. We envision a continent where young people and women drive democracies and economies, building peaceful societies and successful enterprises.
Between 2018 and 2023, we’ve successfully created over 20,000 jobs for young Nigerians through the Ugwumba Enterprise Challenge.
This year marks the 7th edition of our competition, and we’re aiming to empower an additional 2,000 young entrepreneurs with business development skills, small grants, and invaluable mentorship.
Who Can Apply?
Wondering if you qualify? If you’re a Nigerian resident aged between 18 and 40, regardless of gender, and you have a business idea or a social enterprise concept, you’re eligible to apply.
We welcome ideas from all sectors of the economy because every sector plays a crucial role in the nation’s growth and development. Whether you’re working in agriculture, food technology, renewable energy, IT, health tech, telecommunications, or any other field, we want to hear from you!
We particularly focus on early-stage startups and those in the ideation phase. Why? Because we aim to be the angel investors who help bring those fledgling ideas to life, ideas that might otherwise remain dormant.
Benefits of Ugwumba Enterprise Challenge
Participating in the Ugwumba Enterprise Challenge opens up a world of opportunities. Here’s what you could win:
- 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
Key Dates to Remember
- Call for Applications: August 16 – September 16, 2024
- Admission into Boot Camp: September 18, 2024
- UEC 2024 Open Day: September 20, 2024
- UEC Boot Camp: September 23 – October 18, 2024
- 1st Preliminary Pitching Competition: October 21 – 30, 2024
- Announcement of Top 20 Startups: November 4, 2024
- 2nd Preliminary Pitching Competition: November 6 – 20, 2024
- Announcement of Top 10 Finalists: November 26, 2024
- Grand Finale in Abuja: December 3, 2024
Ready to Transform Your Idea?
If you think you have what it takes to impress the judges and make your entrepreneurial dreams a reality, don’t hesitate to apply. You need to submit your application before Ugwumba Enterprise Challenge deadline on September 11, 2024.
The Ugwumba Enterprise Challenge is more than just a competition; it’s a stepping stone for young Nigerian entrepreneurs to bring their visions to life. With financial backing, expert guidance, and a supportive community, you can turn your innovative idea into a successful business or social venture. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to make a difference in your life and contribute to Africa’s economic growth. Don’t wait—apply now and kickstart your path to entrepreneurial success!
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