Host: Wema Bank | Enterprise Development Centre (EDC) | Mastercard Foundation
Category: Fellowships
Eligible Countries: Nigeria
Rewards: ₦5M Grant | Enterprise Training | Mentorship
Application Deadline: Not Specified
The Wema Bank/EDC/Mastercard Transforming Nigerian Youth Program is a strategic initiative designed to empower young entrepreneurs and women-led businesses in Nigeria. This program provides comprehensive enterprise training, access to grants, market development support, and personalized mentorship, equipping participants with the tools needed to succeed in today’s competitive business environment.
Through this initiative, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across various industries will gain access to essential business resources, helping them scale their businesses, create jobs, and drive economic growth in Nigeria.
If you’re an aspiring entrepreneur looking for funding and business support, this program is an opportunity to gain financial and strategic backing to grow your business.
About the Mastercard Transforming Nigerian Youth Program
The SARA by Wema, in collaboration with Enterprise Development Centre (EDC) and Mastercard Foundation, has launched a transformative program designed to equip young Nigerian entrepreneurs—especially women—with essential business and managerial skills.
This program aims to:
- Transform the entrepreneurial mindset of Nigerian youth and equip them with the skills to become job creators rather than job seekers.
- Provide market access and business support to existing entrepreneurs, particularly those running small and medium-sized businesses.
- Revolutionize learning and information access for Nigerian entrepreneurs, making it easier to gain business knowledge and grow their enterprises.
With a focus on young entrepreneurs aged 18–35 years, the program offers expert-led business training, mentorship, and financial support, including grants of up to ₦5 million to help businesses thrive.
Eligibility Criteria for the Wema Bank/EDC/Mastercard Youth Program
To qualify for the Transforming Nigerian Youth Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Age Requirement: Must be between 18 and 35 years old.
- Residency: Must be a Nigerian citizen and currently living in Nigeria.
- Business Focus: Must be a woman entrepreneur or a young business owner operating in any sector within the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) industry.
This initiative is open to all industries, ensuring that both aspiring and existing business owners can benefit from the program’s resources.
Program Benefits and Rewards
Participants of the Wema Bank/EDC/Mastercard Youth Program will receive:
1. Free Enterprise Training
- Comprehensive business development training at no cost to participants.
- Hands-on lessons in business strategy, finance, digital marketing, and operations management.
2. Personalized Mentorship from Industry Experts
- Direct guidance from experienced business leaders and entrepreneurs.
- Access to a dedicated business support team to help refine business models.
3. Financial Support & Seed Funding
- Opportunity to secure funding and investment for business expansion.
- Grants of up to ₦5 million available to high-performing participants with strong business proposals.
4. Market Access & Networking Opportunities
- Exclusive access to industry leaders, investors, and potential business partners.
- Business showcase opportunities to attract funding and market expansion.
By participating in this business accelerator program, young entrepreneurs will gain the knowledge, funding, and support they need to scale their businesses, increase revenue, and create employment opportunities within their communities.
How to Apply for the Mastercard Transforming Nigerian Youth Program
Interested and qualified candidates can apply by following these steps:
1. Visit the Program’s Official Webpage
Click the link below to access the official application portal:
Apply Now
2. Register and Create an Account
- Click on the “Register” button.
- Fill in your personal details and business information.
- If you already have an account, simply log in.
3. Complete the Application Process
- Answer the pre-screening questions to confirm eligibility.
- Provide details about your business, industry, and entrepreneurial goals.
- Submit all necessary supporting documents, including a well-structured business plan.
4. Selection and Grant Disbursement
- Participants will be selected based on predefined criteria, including active participation in the training program and the quality of their business proposals.
- Successful applicants will be contacted and guided through the next steps.
Final Thoughts
The ₦5M Wema Bank/EDC/Mastercard Transforming Nigerian Youth Program is a game-changing opportunity for young entrepreneurs in Nigeria. If you’re looking to scale your business, receive expert training, and secure funding, this program is your gateway to success.
With fully-funded enterprise training, strategic mentorship, and financial grants, participants will be equipped with the skills, network, and funding needed to build sustainable businesses and drive economic growth in Nigeria.
Don’t miss this opportunity! Apply today and take your business to the next level!
Click Here to Apply