Platform awards N4.5m grant to three young entrepreneurs

Nigeria’s premiere creative learning platform, The Phoenix Project, has awarded three exceptional young entrepreneurs with a grant of N1.5m each at its yearly pitch event– The Phoenix Den. They include Founder of Shoggyben Visuals, Olukoya Benjamin; Founder of The Film Joint, Dawn Nketim-Rex and Creator of an Online Platform for Indigenous Language and Culture for Nigerian Teens and Adults, Eric Nwanso.

The awardees were selected from a group of 10 finalists, who presented their ideas to a panel of judges recently at the Access Bank Headquarters in Lagos.
In addition, the awardees would receive mentorship and access to a network of industry experts to guide their business growth, including working closely with the Emerging Business unit of Access Bank to receive all necessary support through their entrepreneurial journey.

Some of the benefits available to them include access to reduced interest business loans, access to tailored advisory services and business consultations designed for micro, small and medium enterprises through the Access SME business clinic.

The Phoenix Project, which was launched in April 2022, provides training and support for individuals seeking to launch a business or career in the Nigerian creative industry. The three-tier programme includes the beginner (virtual), intermediate, and advanced levels (physical) in partnership with the School of Media and Communication of the Pan-Atlantic University, and a three-month incubation program called the Phoenix Den at the Nest Innovation Tech Park.

The 10 finalists at the event included Akintomide Aluko, Dawn Nketim-Rex, Deborah Ukpanah, Henry Owumi, Peace Monday, Eric Nwanso, Olukoya Benjamin, Tosin Jones, Temitope Mary Odo, and Laura Okpare.

Speaking on the project, the Chief Executive Officer, Accelerate, Colette Otusheso stated that the Phoenix project remains a veritable platform to exhibit creative talents.

“The Phoenix Project has consistently provided a platform for creative talent to thrive in Nigeria. We are proud to continue this tradition and offer financial support to these brilliant entrepreneurs who are set to impact the industry.” “In addition to financial support, the Phoenix Project is dedicated to nurturing creative talent in Nigeria through targeted training, capacity-building programs, and fostering a strong sense of community. We believe that by investing in these areas, we can create a sustainable and vibrant creative industry,” she said.