ImagineMiah Africa, in strategic collaboration with The CoHub Ibadan, has ushered in a new era of entrepreneurial empowerment with the successful launch of the inaugural cohort of the Elevate1m Incubation Programme. This transformative initiative, a brainchild of ImagineMiah Africa’s Elevate1m project, is poised to catalyze the growth of 1 million SMEs and startups across Nigeria and Africa, driving sustainable economic development, curbing unemployment, and fostering a thriving ecosystem for growth in Oyo State.
The Elevate1m Incubation Programme has been meticulously crafted to bolster the foundations of entrepreneurship, with a strong focus on women entrepreneurs, thereby creating a profound impact on Oyo State’s economic landscape. The program is not merely a training ground but an avenue to ignite sustainable economic growth, alleviate unemployment concerns, and nurture an environment conducive to dynamic development.
Jeremiah Oluwarinu, Business Development Manager at ImagineMiah Africa, revealed that the three-month program provided aspiring entrepreneurs a unique opportunity to delve into intensive training, guided mentorship, and wisdom imparted by accomplished facilitators, industry experts, and triumphant business leaders. The learning journey was characterized by knowledge-sharing and experiential learning, underpinned by the practical insights of seasoned mentors
Embodying a strong commitment to women’s economic empowerment, the Elevate1m Incubation Programme embraced women-owned businesses as a priority. Impressively, 80% of the selected participants were women entrepreneurs, signaling the pivotal role women play in driving economic progress and fostering a diverse and inclusive entrepreneurial landscape.
A captivating and educational business tour to Afrimash, a prominent Agritech Startup in Ibadan, was an enriching highlight of the program. This firsthand exposure to successful business operations enabled participants to connect theoretical learning with real-world practices, thereby invigorating their innovative zeal and enhancing their business acumen.
The eagerly anticipated Demo Day, a crescendo of the program, saw participants showcase their ingenious business ideas and solutions before a distinguished panel of judges. The event, streamed live, was graced by an esteemed panel, including Dr. Charles Nwishienyi, Dr. Oyenike Abiodun Adeleke, Atinuke Smith, and Oluwamayowa Oshidero. The event not only provided a platform for participants to shine but also nurtured a spirit of healthy competition and unwavering self-assurance.
In a gesture of heartfelt appreciation, ImagineMiah Africa and The CoHub Ibadan accorded facilitators and judges the esteemed Certificate of Recognition and Excellence. This distinguished recognition symbolizes their pivotal role in fostering a vibrant ecosystem for growth in Oyo State and underscores their dedication to nurturing the next generation of trailblazing entrepreneurs.
Jeremiah Adeyemi Oluwarinu, the visionary Founder/Business Development Manager at ImagineMiah Africa, affirmed, “We are already preparing and excited for the next Cohort in 2024 and are open to sponsors and partners. Through our services driven by the SDGs, we remain focused on our vision of supporting 1 million SMEs/Startups by 2030.” The Elevate1m Incubation Programme is not merely a standalone endeavor but a part of a larger commitment to catalyzing economic prosperity and unlocking boundless opportunities for SMEs and startups in the region.
As the echoes of the Elevate1m Incubation Programme reverberate across Oyo State, they carry with them the promise of transformative change. By empowering women entrepreneurs, fostering innovation, and cultivating a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem, ImagineMiah Africa is steadfast in its resolve to shape an empowered, economically vibrant future for Oyo State and beyond
