The Enterprise Development Centre (EDC), a leading enterprise development Centre in Africa and a unit of the Pan-Atlantic University, and the Women Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (WCCIMA), the women chamber movement of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry Mines & Agriculture (NACCIMA), have announced a strategic alliance to empower 10,000 women entrepreneurs aged 18-35 across the country.
The strategic alliance is part of the Transforming Nigerian Youths Program an initiative in partnership with Mastercard Foundation, which aims to equip young people with the skills, knowledge, and networks to start and grow their own businesses, create jobs, and contribute to the economic development of Nigeria. The program focuses on three key sectors: digital, agriculture, and creative industries. The program covers topics such as business planning, marketing, financial management, innovation, and social entrepreneurship. The program will also provide mentorship, access to finance, and networking opportunities for the participants.
The strategic alliance was officially announced at a press briefing event, attended by representatives from the EDC, WCCIMA, and the media.
The EDC Director, Mrs. Nneka Okekearu, said, “We are thrilled to announce this strategic alliance with the WCCIMA to empower 10,000 women entrepreneurs across the country. We believe that this program will enable more women within the WCCIMA network to build their capacity and achieve more impact and growth.”
The DG WCCIMA, Ms. Weyinmi Eribo, said, “This pivotal alliance with EDC and Mastercard Foundation signifies a major effort to empower 10,000 young women entrepreneurs in Nigeria, promoting economic growth and innovation across essential sectors. We hope that beneficiaries will be better positioned to run sustainable businesses and enable them to scale and create more jobs.”
EDC shall be responsible for all the activities and components required for the implementation of the Transforming Nigerian Youths Program which includes capacity building and business mentoring for women as determined during the term of this agreement.
The program is open to women aged 18-35 who are running businesses or have a startup. The program is free of charge, but participants are required to commit to attending all the training sessions and completing their growth plan. Interested women can apply online at bit.ly/tnywccima.