FATE Foundation, in partnership with Futuremakers by Standard Chartered Bank, has launched the Revolving Loan Fund Programme, a strategic initiative aimed at empowering young and underserved entrepreneurs across Nigeria.
Targeting individuals aged 18 to 35, with particular focus on women and persons with disabilities, the programme provides low-interest loans, capacity-building opportunities, and digital tools to strengthen financial literacy and business management skills.
Over the next three years, the initiative plans to support 300 entrepreneurs, addressing key challenges faced by Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), including limited access to finance, inadequate business management skills, and restricted market opportunities.
Senior Programme Manager at Youth Business International, Linsey Deeks, described the programme as “a powerful example of how innovative financial solutions can unlock opportunities for underserved young entrepreneurs,” noting its potential to drive sustainable enterprise and job creation across Nigeria.
The Revolving Loan Fund Programme has been implemented in phased stages to build entrepreneurial capacity and resilience. Phase One enrolled over 500 participants in an online course covering financial literacy, business management, and digital skills. Phase Two offered intensive four-week training to 178 entrepreneurs in Lagos, Ogun, and Oyo states, equipping them with practical knowledge in financial management, business development, and digital financial tools.
Phase Three focused on access to finance, reviewing 47 applications and funding 36 entrepreneurs with a total of ₦80,050,000. This support has enabled recipients to expand operations, create jobs, and contribute to local economic growth.
Executive Director of FATE Foundation, Adenike Adeyemi, highlighted the programme’s impact in bridging financial inclusion gaps. “By removing barriers such as fund readiness and stringent collateral requirements, we are enabling more entrepreneurs to achieve sustainable business success,” she said.
Adeyemi emphasised that the initiative reflects a shared vision with Futuremakers and Youth Business International to create inclusive economic opportunities and strengthen Nigeria’s MSME ecosystem.
Through its combination of training, mentorship, and funding, the Revolving Loan Fund Programme continues to equip Nigeria’s next generation of entrepreneurs with the skills, confidence, and capital needed to turn ideas into sustainable, growth-oriented businesses.
