Source: Vanguard News
As part of its ongoing efforts to promote youth entrepreneurship, the Amplifier Business Clinic 2024 awarded a total of N10 million in grants to eight exceptional beneficiaries at the program’s grand finale. Now in its third cohort, the initiative celebrated the graduation of 60 emerging entrepreneurs, with eight finalists receiving special recognition and financial support.
The 2024 edition, which began on August 17th, was organized to commemorate International Youth Day (IYD) under the theme, “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development.” This year’s clinic highlighted the role of digital innovation in fostering entrepreneurship and advancing sustainable development.
Out of more than 400 applicants, 107 entrepreneurs were selected to embark on the clinic’s journey, starting with an online training phase that covered essential topics such as Innovation Management, Entrepreneurship DNA, Social Media Strategy, and Business Risk Assessment. Following this phase, 79 participants progressed to in-person sessions, where they received practical training in Leadership Development, Business Planning, Marketing, Financial Management, and Legal Considerations.
A key highlight of the program was a pitch competition where 29 entrepreneurs presented their business ideas to a panel of judges. The competition concluded with Maryam Atolagbe, founder of Machoice Ltd, winning the top award of N2.5 million. Eyitayo, founder of Sundry, and Eniola Roberts, founder of Ennie Wears, took second and third places, receiving N2 million and N1.5 million, respectively. The remaining five finalists shared an additional N4 million in grants.
The graduation ceremony took place on August 27, 2024, at Campos Mini Stadium in Lagos Island. The event was graced by several notable figures, including Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Honourable Commissioner for Youth and Social Development Mobolaji Ogunlende, and Permanent Secretary Toyin Osanyin-Tolu. In his speech, Governor Sanwo-Olu stressed the need to empower young entrepreneurs, stating, “Our goal is to uplift young entrepreneurs, ensuring that no one is left behind, regardless of their background.”
The Amplifier Business Clinic, which is run by Pelse Consulting, aims to create sustainable businesses by offering strategic guidance and financial assistance. Adeniji Oluwafemi Boboye, Managing Partner of Pelse Consulting, emphasized, “Our mission is to see these businesses succeed both locally and internationally. We are dedicated to supporting these entrepreneurs throughout their entire journey.”
The program now enters its mentorship phase, where graduates will be paired with experienced mentors to help refine their business strategies and encourage continued growth.
The Amplifier Business Clinic demonstrates how a combination of strategic training, mentorship, and financial support can drive youth innovation and sustainable development, positioning Lagos State’s young people as leaders in entrepreneurship across Africa.
