The Farmers for the Future (F4F) initiative, aimed at empowering young entrepreneurs in the agricultural sector, has announced a new opportunity for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members to apply for grants of up to ₦10 million. This program, which is funded and supported by the British American Tobacco Nigeria (BATN) Foundation, seeks to engage Nigerian youth in sustainable agriculture and foster economic development through innovative agri-business ventures.
The initiative is part of BATN Foundation’s broader mission to make agribusiness an attractive and viable career path for young Nigerians, thereby reducing youth unemployment and enhancing the agricultural sector’s contribution to the economy.
Eligibility and Application Process
To participate in the Farmers for the Future program, applicants must be current NYSC members actively serving in their service year. The application process, which began on August 26, 2024, requires interested individuals to complete their application via the BATN Foundation Mobile app, available on both the Google Play Store and the iOS App Store. The foundation emphasized that eligibility will be verified during the shortlisting and selection process.
Program Benefits
The F4F program offers a comprehensive package to successful applicants, including:
-N10 Million Grant: Financial support to kickstart or expand promising agri-business ventures.
– Scholarship Coverage: Full coverage of direct course expenses, including materials and data support.
– Bootcamp Session: A practical, hands-on training session designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills needed to successfully pitch their ideas and implement their business strategies.
– Post-Program Assistance: Continued support to ensure that participants can apply what they’ve learned and thrive in their agri-business endeavors.
Strategic Partnership
The launch of this initiative follows a recent meeting between BATN Foundation’s General Manager, Oludare Odusanya, and the newly appointed Director of Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) at NYSC, Sunday Robert Aroni. During the meeting, both parties expressed a strong commitment to deepening their collaboration to promote youth engagement in agriculture. Odusanya highlighted the importance of this partnership, stating, “By equipping youths with the skills and resources they need, we are empowering them to be job creators and helping to secure Nigeria’s agricultural future.”
Aroni echoed these sentiments, noting that the collaboration between NYSC and BATN Foundation is a powerful tool for youth empowerment and entrepreneurship, and he is looking forward to the positive impact it will have on corps members.
This initiative represents a significant opportunity for young Nigerians to contribute to the agricultural sector while gaining valuable entrepreneurial experience and financial support.
