Empowering Futures: PIND’s Challenge Fund Fuels Youth Entrepreneurship Success in Delta State

In June 2023, the Foundation for Partnership Initiatives in the Niger Delta (PIND) bolstered youth entrepreneurship in Delta State, Nigeria, by awarding over 41 million naira to 62 young entrepreneurs through its 2nd round ‘Challenge Fund’ grant. This initiative is part of PIND’s ongoing Youth Employment Pathway (YEP) program, which is currently in its 4th implementation phase. It aims to empower young people with the relevant market, soft skills, and technical support needed to succeed in business.

The challenge fund, integral to the YEP program, is awarded only to individuals who successfully complete a comprehensive two-phase training, application, and interview process and can pitch their business ideas effectively. This financial boost aims to help young entrepreneurs overcome initial financial hurdles and achieve business growth.

A year after receiving their grants, these young entrepreneurs reconvened for a peer review session in Warri, Delta State. This event facilitated the exchange of experiences, challenges, and successes, with a focus on enhancing entrepreneurial skills and local market strategies. The session included panel discussions with Business Service Providers (BSPs), who offered expert advice on risk mitigation, challenge management, and industry best practices.

Notable participants included Okonkwo Ifeanyi Macanthony, who specializes in solar installation and maintenance. He appreciated PIND’s support and noted significant improvements in his business since receiving his 700,000 naira grant from the challenge fund. He highlighted that his business has made 43 million naira in solar installation costs and has marked a significant increase in his clientele after the grant. 

Ilenuma Onosone Alexandra, a poultry farmer, expressed gratitude for the 650,000 naira grant she received. Despite initial difficulties, she scaled her business through strategic partnerships with poultry product off-takers and has recorded a business increase from 400,000 naira monthly to 1.5 million. 

Asaba Christopher Tarekedomene, involved in building and construction, reported that the 800,000 naira grant boosted his business sales from zero to 400,000 monthly.  He also bought new equipment, enabling him to maximize income and train and empower 4 apprentices. Foh Tienna Joseph, a photographer, mentioned that despite his initial challenges after receiving his grant of 730,000 naira, his income increased to 50,000 naira monthly.

Since its inception, the YEP program has trained over 8,000 youth in the Niger Delta region, leading many to secure employment or start their enterprises. The program expanded to Ondo State in 2024, promising further positive impacts.

PIND’s continued commitment to the youth in the Niger Delta region aims to equip them with market-relevant skills, thereby reducing unemployment in the region and changing livelihoods, and improving incomes.