Unity Bank has reiterated its commitment to fostering economic growth by empowering 400 recent graduates through its Corpreneurship Challenge, an entrepreneurial development program. Over the past five years, the bank has invested more than N100 million into this initiative.
The Corpreneurship Challenge was introduced in 2019 in collaboration with the NYSC Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED). Initially launched in Lagos, Edo, Ogun, and Abuja, the program expanded to 10 states in 2020.
This initiative includes a business pitch competition where NYSC participants present their business plans. Winners receive business grants, which have recently been increased to N16 million per stream. The top three positions are now awarded N800,000, N500,000, and N300,000, respectively.
Mr. Olufunwa Akinmade, Divisional Head of Digital Banking and Fintech Partnerships, commended the initiative for its role in supporting young entrepreneurs and addressing significant economic challenges. Mrs. Adenike Ambimbola, Divisional Head of Retail and SME Banking, emphasized the program’s success in empowering youth and creating jobs, highlighting the importance of mentorship and skills development alongside financial support.
The Corpreneurship Challenge has reached various states across Nigeria, with the most recent edition held in Taraba, Kogi, FCT, Lagos, Yobe, Ogun, Ebonyi, Enugu, Adamawa, and Imo. Each edition features three winners from each state, totaling 30 winners per cycle.
Unity Bank’s Corpreneurship Challenge stands out as a vital sector-agnostic business incubator in Nigeria, significantly contributing to the growth of the SME sector and supporting young entrepreneurs in achieving their dreams.
