In a significant boost for Nigeria's entrepreneurial landscape, Thinklab Group Limited has officially disbursed over Two Hundred and Fifty Million Naira to thirteen young business founders. This landmark investment marks the first major fulfillment of a bold One Billion Naira pledge made by the Group's Chairman, Dr. Sa’id Alkali Kori, in January 2025.
From National Search to Strategic Partnership
The cheque presentation ceremony was the climax of a rigorous, year-long nationwide hunt for exceptional talent under the "Thinkpreneur" programme. The initiative sparked massive interest, drawing in more than 3,000 applications from aspiring entrepreneurs across Nigeria. The initial phase required candidates to submit compelling one-minute video pitches for a chance to access the historic fund.
What followed was a multi-stage filtration process designed to identify only the most sustainable and scalable ventures. The assessment was led by renowned entrepreneurship expert, Engr. Muhammad Zarma, and a distinguished panel including Prof. Almuhajir Sherrif, Abuy Abba Akhuwa, Musa Gwary, Fatima Albanawy, Ammitta Jidda, Hauwa Anas, and Veronica Braimoh.
Candidates advanced through successive rounds, refining their business models under expert guidance. The final stage involved intense boardroom negotiations with the Thinklab investment team, focusing on critical aspects like valuation, equity, and long-term growth strategy.
Investment, Not Charity: A Vote of Confidence
During the presentation, Dr. Kori emphasized the strategic nature of the initiative. "Today is not about charity; it is about partnership," he stated. "We received 3,000 dreams. Through a process built on integrity and rigour, we have entered into 13 strategic equity partnerships. The over ₦250 million presented today is not a grant; it is a vote of confidence and the foundation of a shared future."
He further expressed the Group's commitment to nurturing these investments, adding, "We have sown seeds, and we will actively nurture them as these millions grow into billions." The thirteen selected businesses span various sectors, aligning with the programme's goal of driving diversified economic growth across Nigeria.
The Road Ahead: Year of Consolidation
Dr. Kori also addressed the remaining portion of the initial One Billion Naira pledge, revealing a forward-thinking strategy. The balance of the funds is not idle but has been strategically reserved for 2026, declared the 'Year of Consolidation.'
These funds are earmarked for providing follow-on investment and deepened support to the inaugural cohort—the "Thinkpreneur 13"—as they scale their operations. This ensures the partnership extends far beyond the initial capital injection, focusing on sustained growth and impact.
The Thinkpreneur programme is a core part of Thinklab Group's mission to leverage finance and innovation for national development. By moving from a broad promise to targeted, equity-based investments in rigorously vetted businesses, the Group aims to establish a new blueprint for corporate-led entrepreneurship development in the country.
About Thinklab Group Limited: Thinklab Group is a multi-billion Naira innovation, development, and finance institution committed to driving economic growth through strategic investments in infrastructure, agriculture, technology, and human capital.
