The Jerry Eze Foundation has distributed a total of N1 billion in grants to 240 small and micro business owners across Nigeria. The awards were presented during a ceremony held at the Transcorp Hilton in Abuja. Each selected entrepreneur received $3,000 to either launch a new business, expand an existing one, or enhance their operations.
Programme Aim and Selection Process
According to the foundation, the initiative is part of a broader strategy to foster entrepreneurship and transform charitable efforts into tangible economic growth. The event drew participants from various sectors, including business, government, religion, and entertainment. The selection process was independently managed by the consulting firm KPMG, which screened over 16,000 applicants. Of these, 9,668 met all the requirements, and 240 entrepreneurs from across Nigeria were ultimately chosen. Beneficiaries were primarily selected from three key areas: agriculture and agribusiness, manufacturing, and technology and digital services.
Leaders Urge Beneficiaries to Think Big
In her speech, Oby Ezekwesili encouraged the recipients to aim for large-scale impact. She emphasized that Africa needs businesses that grow with purpose and address real problems, rather than remaining small. Ezekwesili stated, "The resources have been placed in your hands. The platform has been given. The acceptable direction is impact at scale. Africa is watching. Build accordingly." She challenged the entrepreneurs to use the opportunity wisely and focus on making a meaningful difference.
Ibukun Awosika also spoke, describing the initiative as a powerful step that connects potential with real progress. Awosika said, "Today, the Jerry Eze Foundation has done something profound; it has built a bridge between potential and progress, and each awardee must harness their potential to the fullest." She advised the beneficiaries to continue learning from others and to collaborate, noting that cooperation can help transform small businesses into enduring institutions.
Founder's Inspiration and Call to Action
The founder, Jerry Eze, shared that the idea behind the foundation came from lessons he learned growing up, especially from his mother, who believed in giving even when she had little. Eze remarked, "My late mum was the one who taught me that you can give everything. So everything I know about giving I learned from my mother. She could have nothing, and still find something to give." He encouraged the business owners to focus on creating value and supporting their communities, expressing confidence that many would return with success stories in the near future.
The event also featured remarks from other dignitaries who stressed the importance of entrepreneurship in driving Nigeria's economy. The foundation plans to continue its support for small businesses through future initiatives.
