Rinchi
TechInAfrica – The National Social Investment Program (NSIP) of Edo State has supported six startups to take part in an incubation program called the South-South Innovation Hub, providing them checks of N5 million grant to expand their businesses.
The checks were presented to the startups by the Minister of State, Budget and National Planning, Prince Clem Agba, in Benin City, Edo State, Southern Nigeria. According to Prince Agba, the innovative businesses developed by the startups would be showcases at both national and international level.
The Prince was represented by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Ernest Umakhihe. Umakhihe said that the Prince was committed to providing the six startups with the grants in order to grow and expand their innovative businesses.
“I am greatly excited and overwhelmed by the innovations of the startups. This will be showcased at the national and international levels and we will get more donors to support such initiatives, Agba said,” said the Secretary quoted the Prince.
On the other hand, Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki who was represented by the Commissioner for Youth, Hon. Damian Lawani, emphasized that youth empowerment can reduce social vices in the country.
The Commissioner said that their support for these startups is part of their commitment to helping them develop their solutions-driven businesses. He stressed that the State Government was committed to collaborating with individuals and groups to empower youth in Edo State.
The South-South Innovation Hub is created as the platform for youths to develop their innovative ideas into business. Furthermore, the grant will not only allow the startups to expand their business ideas, but also employ more people, and strengthen their market base.
Samuel Oluwatobi, the Managing Director of Marybel Nigeria Ltd., explained that 17 startups were awarded N250,000 each to develop their ideas into businesses, in the first phase of the grant program. Six out of the 17 startups were given N5 million grant in the second phase of the grant program.
Source: innovation-village.com
