To actualise the T.H.E.M.E.S Development Agenda, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has approved the disbursement of N255 million to fund 51 projects addressing SDGs.

Speaking at a media parley, Special Adviser on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Investment, Lagos State, Solape Hammond, said the project tagged ‘Lagos SDGs Grant Competition’, was conceived as part of the strategy to mobilise collective action to advance progress on the SDGs through social, economic, and environmental initiatives that are positive, transformative, collaborative, and scalable.

According to her, the competition would award  N5 million each to three winning ideas from Civil Society Organisations, Social Impact Ventures and Non-Governmental Organisations within Lagos state, that targets each of the SDGs. 

“This competition will enable the state government to create a broader-based collaboration with the CSOs, NGOs and social entrepreneurs who are already implementing solutions to achieve the SDGs.

“Applicants who must have successfully passed eligibility screenings will be required to submit one project idea that addresses one of the 17 Global SDGs. The project must reflect a specific KPI, and an estimate of total people that will be impacted by the project.

“Submitted projects will be reviewed by a project selection committee who will grant interviews to the most promising applicants,” she said.

Hammond added that the Office is also making necessary plan to partner with Franchiser and Distributor Forum for the ‘launch a franchise’ system for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) operating within the State.

The scheme would offer 200 MSMEs to the franchise business system by providing digital infrastructure for all Lagos based franchises available for investment including periodic financing forum for both franchisors and franchisees.

Another project the office is embarking on is the SDG surprise mentorship programme, which creates an empowering opportunity to support young people’s aspiration across the state.

“The initiative is part of the annual Lagos Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Week programme aimed towards facilitating a remarkable and surprise encounter between young people in Lagos State and some notable and inspiring personalities in the society whose accomplishments and experiences can shape positive perspectives about life and reignite hope for the younger generation,” Hammond said.