IB Plc Hero’s Foundation Kick-Start Programme awards 44 budding entrepreneurs N84.5m

International Breweries Plc (IB Plc) Hero’s Foundation Kick-start programme on Tuesday, 18th December awarded N84.5m business grants to 44 budding entrepreneurs as part of the company’s Corporate Social Initiative.

The lucky entrepreneurs who were selected from over 120 participants received the grant at an award ceremony of the third edition of Hero’s Foundation Kick-Start Programme which held at the Dolly Hills Hotel, Onitsha, Anambra State.

The selection process started with the call for applications in August 2018. Over 120 successful participants were invited to a rigorous one-week business training at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Business School in Awka after which they submitted their business proposals. The proposals were judged based on the strength and sustainability of the business ideas by a team of judges led by Professor Chukwuma Osisioma who carefully selected the final winners of the Programme.

Chairman of the Foundation, His Majesty Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, The Obi of Onitsha (Agbogidi), urged all the awardees to use their business grants and all they have learned during the business training to create value for themselves and the society.

“I urge you all to absorb everything you have learnt during the business training and apply them to your businesses as you move forward. Running businesses is not for the faint-hearted, especially in Nigeria. I urge you all to keep pushing, do not relent, make the most of this amazing opportunity you have been gifted to create value for yourself and for the society.”

The Executive Governor of Anambra State, Chief Willie Obiano who was represented by his deputy, Dr. Nkem Okeke, thanked International Breweries Plc for continuing to train, empower and encourage young entrepreneurs in the country.

“The Hero’s Foundation has taken upon itself the mission to instill the culture of entrepreneurship in our youth by empowering them with much-needed training and funds to start-up new businesses or expand already existing ones.

“This brilliant purpose has pleased the governor, as well as fellow members of his administration because bridging the gap between the youth and productivity is a project we embark on with sincere passion,” Okeke said.

Eze Calista, one of the top winners at the award ceremony who spoke on behalf of the awardees, expressed gratitude to International Breweries Plc for giving them with the opportunity of a lifetime by providing access to business professionals and experts during the business training, millions of naira in business grants and a year-long mentorship.

The Hero’s Foundation Kick-start programme is a Corporate Social Investment (CSI) of International Breweries Plc aimed at instilling a culture of entrepreneurship among Nigerian youths. The programme kicked off in 2016 with the five core eastern states. The programme this year included Bayelsa and Rivers States.

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