Two (2) Innovative Programs Promoting Youth Empowerment in Nigeria by Bet Naija Foundation

Nigeria’s youth hold the key to unlocking the nation's future. With a rapidly growing population and an expanding economy, providing the right opportunities for the younger generation is essential. The Bet9ja Foundation leads the charge through two transformative programs focusing on education and entrepreneurship: The Undergraduate Scholarship and The ScaleUp Business Pitch Challenge. Both initiatives are designed to give young Nigerians the tools they need to succeed while fostering long-term economic development and societal growth.

 

1. Undergraduate Scholarship: Empowering Future Leaders

The Bet9ja Foundation Nigeria Undergraduate Scholarship, launching in 2025, is committed to empowering bright young minds by providing full tuition to students currently enrolled in public Nigerian universities. This scholarship is designed to alleviate the financial barriers to higher education for students in key fields such as STEM, Humanities, Administration, Law, and Medicine.

Eligibility Criteria:

●      Open to 3rd and 4th-year students in public universities.

●      A CGPA of 4.0 and above is required.

●      Submission of a 200-word essay on "The Transformative Power of Education".

The scholarship is not just about funding education; it's about fostering the next generation of leaders who will drive change and innovation across Nigeria. With the burden of tuition fees lifted, students can focus on their studies, develop their skills, and contribute positively to society.

If you are eligible, watch the Bet9ja Foundation website for more updates on the scholarship's reopening in 2025. Start preparing now so you're ready when applications open.

 

2. ScaleUp Business Pitch Challenge: Nurturing Nigeria’s Entrepreneurial Spirit

The ScaleUp Business Pitch Challenge has proven to be a game-changer for early-stage Nigerian businesses, even though the application window has already closed for this year. This program offered ₦3 million grants to 10 selected businesses and access to a comprehensive 3-month accelerator program. Participants were provided invaluable mentorship, expert-led workshops, and the opportunity to pitch their business ideas to a panel of angel investors.

Key Benefits of the Program:

●      ₦3 million grant for each of the 10 selected businesses.

●      Access to a 3-month accelerator program, featuring mentorship and training from top experts in various fields.

●      The chance to pitch to a panel of angel investors during the Demo Night.

●      An additional ₦5 million grant for the best pitch.

The ScaleUp Business Pitch Challenge is more than just a competition; it's a platform that allows businesses to grow, gain exposure, and create lasting connections with industry leaders and investors. By supporting early-stage businesses, the Bet9ja Foundation is crucial in strengthening Nigeria's small and medium enterprise (SME) sector, a backbone of the nation’s economy.

Note for Future Applicants: Entrepreneurs and businesses interested in similar opportunities should stay tuned for future editions of the ScaleUp Challenge. The Bet9ja Foundation continues to support small businesses looking to make a big impact.

 

Building the Future of Nigeria Together

The Bet9ja Foundation’s commitment to youth empowerment shines through in these two programs: the Undergraduate Scholarship and the ScaleUp Business Pitch Challenge. Whether you’re a student looking to further your education or an entrepreneur eager to scale your business, the Foundation provides the resources and support to help you succeed.

Stay informed about upcoming initiatives by visiting the Bet9ja Foundation website regularly. Together, we can build a brighter, more prosperous future for Nigeria.