ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Creating Opportunities for Economic Growth

Entrepreneurship drives economic development and poverty alleviation. We empower individuals to create, sustain, and grow businesses that uplift their families and communities.

Our Initiatives in Entrepreneurship

Business Startup Support and Skill Development:

We provide grants, seed funding, and mentorship to help entrepreneurs launch or scale their businesses. Through workshops and boot camps, participants gain critical skills in business management, financial literacy, marketing, and vocational training, ensuring long-term success.

Empowerment for Women and Youth:

Dedicated programs support women-led businesses and inspire youth to embrace entrepreneurship. With tailored grants, mentorship, and apprenticeships, we address barriers and open doors to opportunities, enabling economic independence and growth.

Networking and Market Access:

We connect entrepreneurs with investors, markets, and global opportunities through trade fairs, exhibitions, and initiatives like the Global Apprenticeship Hub. This platform facilitates local and international learning experiences with expert business leaders, fully funded by the foundation.

Digital and Innovative Solutions:

We equip individuals with the tools to thrive in the digital economy. From e-commerce training to leveraging technology for business growth, our programs ensure entrepreneurs are prepared to compete in a modern, tech-driven world.

Aligned SDGs: Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8), No Poverty (SDG 1).

Empower Entrepreneurs, Build Prosperity!

Project Mount

Empowering Youths and Women Across Nigeria

The Ike Odoeme Foundation (TIOF) proudly presents PROJECT MOUNT, a transformative initiative aimed at empowering and supporting the youths and women from communities across Imo State and other states in Nigeria. This program is designed to provide financial assistance, training, and opportunities for entrepreneurship and skill development, ensuring sustainable growth and economic resilience.

Project Mount is more than just a funding program; it’s a movement to create lasting change. By empowering individuals with the resources, knowledge, and opportunities they need, we are paving the way for a brighter, more prosperous future for communities across Nigeria.

Key Activities

Sustainable Development: By supporting small businesses and fostering entrepreneurship, we contribute to the sustainable development of local economies. Our efforts align with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in promoting decent work and economic growth (SDG 8) and reducing poverty (SDG 1).

Gender Equality: Project Mount places a significant emphasis on empowering women, recognizing their vital role in economic development. By providing women with financial support and training, we promote gender equality and enhance their ability to contribute to their communities (SDG 5).

Youth Empowerment: Young people are the future of Nigeria. Through this initiative, we aim to harness their potential, creativity, and energy, ensuring they have the tools and opportunities to succeed. Empowered youths can drive innovation, create jobs, and lead their communities towards a brighter future.

Phase 1: Supporting Local Entrepreneurs and Farmers

In the first phase of Project Mount, The Ike Odoeme Foundation focuses on the Ihitte/Uboma Local Government Area (LGA) in Imo State. Here, we will empower 40 youths and 200 women from various communities:

For Each Woman: A grant of 100,000 Naira to start and grow their business.
For Each Youth: A grant of 500,000 Naira to launch and expand their entrepreneurial ventures.

These grants are not just financial aids but seeds for building stronger, more resilient communities through local entrepreneurship.

- Financial Empowerment: By providing substantial grants, we aim to eliminate financial barriers that hinder the growth of small businesses. This support enables recipients to invest in necessary resources, equipment, and materials, ensuring their businesses have a solid foundation.
- Business Training and Mentorship: Alongside the financial support, TIOF offers comprehensive training programs and mentorship sessions. These sessions are designed to equip participants with essential business skills, including financial management, marketing strategies, and customer relations. Experienced mentors will guide them through the process, offering valuable insights and advice.

Community Impact: Empowering individuals to start and grow their businesses has a ripple effect on the community. Successful businesses create jobs, stimulate local economies, and contribute to the overall development and well-being of the region.

Phase 2: The Nwa Boi Project

The second phase, known as the Nwa Boi Project, extends opportunities to selected youths interested in apprenticing with established business owners, both within Nigeria and internationally. This phase is designed to provide hands-on experience, mentorship, and the skills needed to thrive in competitive markets.

Comprehensive Support: For those selected, TIOF will cover all associated costs, including accommodation, flight tickets for international apprenticeships, and other necessary expenses. This ensures that financial constraints do not hinder their participation and learning opportunities.

Global Exposure: This phase aims to provide youths with exposure to global business practices and networks, enhancing their prospects and capabilities. By learning from successful business owners, participants gain invaluable insights into innovative techniques, industry trends, and effective business models.

Building Networks: Participants will have the opportunity to build professional networks with industry leaders, potential investors, and fellow entrepreneurs. These connections can open doors to future collaborations, partnerships, and business opportunities.

How To Be A Beneficiary

Are you a youth interested in benefiting from Project Mount?

Follow these steps to apply:

Create a Video: Make a 3-minute video introducing yourself, your business and/or skills.

Showcase Your Venture: Explain and show your trade, skill, or farming venture. Provide a clear and compelling presentation of what you do, highlighting your expertise and passion.

Highlight Opportunities and Challenges: Discuss the opportunities and challenges your business faces. Be specific about the obstacles you encounter and the potential for growth with the right support.

Explain the Impact: Share the value that The Ike Odoeme Foundation’s support would add to your endeavour and how it would make a difference. Describe how the grant or apprenticeship would transform your business and benefit your community.

Share on Social Media: Post your video on your social media pages and tag The Ike Odoeme Foundation (Facebook: Ike Odoeme Foundation, Instagram: @ike.odoemefoundation). Use relevant hashtags to increase visibility and engagement.

Spread the Word: Encourage friends and family who can benefit from this initiative to apply as well. Help us reach as many deserving candidates as possible.

“Project Mount is an invitation to be part of something transformative. Join us in empowering the next generation of Nigerian entrepreneurs. Together, we can create a wave of positive change that uplifts communities, fosters economic resilience, and builds a brighter future for all.”