Entrepreneurship · Build
Got an idea? Let’s build it.
You don’t need to wait to be hired to make your mark. We are building programmes to help young Nigerians turn ideas into businesses, skills into income and ambition into jobs for others.
Why it matters
Your ideas can create jobs, not just find them
Many young people have the drive to start something but not the knowledge, network or first naira they need. That is the gap we want to close.
- Practical skills you can use the same week
- Mentors who have built and run real businesses
- Seed funding for the most promising young founders
- A community of young founders across Nigeria
These programmes are being designed now. Register your interest to help shape them.
Programmes
Four ways to start and grow
Each programme is open to young people in school, in training or just starting out in work.
Young Founders Lab
A hands-on bootcamp that takes you from an idea to a tested business plan.
- Find a problem worth solving
- Test your idea with real customers
- Pitch to a panel
Seed Grants
Small grants to help the strongest young founders take their first real step.
- Open to Founders Lab graduates
- Use for equipment, stock or tools
- Support to manage the money well
Mentor Match
One-to-one guidance from experienced business people and professionals.
- Regular check-ins with a mentor
- Help with money, marketing and sales
- Introductions to useful contacts
Skills for Work
Short courses in the digital and vocational skills employers and customers pay for.
- Digital and online skills
- Trade and vocational skills
- Certificates of completion
How it will work
Five steps from idea to impact
- ApplyTell us about you and your idea
- LearnJoin the Founders Lab
- BuildTest it with real customers
- PitchPresent to a panel
- GrowSeed funding and a mentor
Who it’s for
Built for young people ready to try
Students
Still in school or university and already thinking about your own thing? Start learning now.
Young founders
Already selling, making or fixing something? Get the skills and support to grow it.
Job seekers
Want skills that pay? Our short courses can help you earn or get hired.
Be first in line
Help us shape what comes next
Join the list and you will hear first when applications open. Businesses and professionals can get involved too.
Register your interest
Tell us a little about yourself and your idea.
Back a young founder. Watch a business grow.
Your support funds training, mentoring and seed grants for young Nigerians with ideas.