The Phoenix Project, Nigeria’s leading creative learning platform, has awarded grants totaling N4.5 million to three young entrepreneurs at its annual pitch event, The Phoenix Den. The event took place on September 4, 2024, at the Access Bank Headquarters in Oniru, Lagos.
The awardees are:
– Olukoya Benjamin, Founder of Shoggyben Visuals
– Dawn Nketim-Rex, Founder of The Film Joint
– Eric Nwanso, Creator of an Online Platform for Indigenous Language and Culture for Nigerian Teens and Adults
Each entrepreneur will receive a grant of N1.5 million to support their business ventures. In addition to financial backing, they will gain mentorship and access to industry experts to guide their business growth. The Emerging Business unit of Access Bank will also offer support through specialized services, including reduced-interest business loans, advisory consultations, and participation in Access Bank’s SME business clinic.
The Phoenix Project, launched in April 2022, is designed to provide training and support for individuals pursuing careers in Nigeria’s creative industry. The program includes beginner (virtual), intermediate, and advanced (physical) training, offered in collaboration with the School of Media and Communication at Pan-Atlantic University. It also features a three-month incubation program, The Phoenix Den, held at the Nest Innovation Tech Park.
This year’s pitch event included 10 finalists, among whom were Akintomide Aluko, Deborah Ukpanah, Henry Owumi, Peace Monday, Tosin Jones, Temitope Mary Odo, and Laura Okpare, alongside the three winners.
Colette Otusheso, CEO of Accelerate, emphasized the importance of the Phoenix Project in showcasing Nigeria’s creative talents, saying, “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.”
Chioma Ogwo, Head of Non-Financial Services at Access Bank, reiterated the bank’s commitment to supporting the creative industry. She noted, “At Access Bank, we believe in nurturing talent, especially those dedicated to the progress of Nigeria’s creative ecosystem. The Phoenix Project provides the perfect platform to realize that vision.”
Through initiatives like The Phoenix Project, the Nigerian creative industry continues to benefit from targeted support, capacity-building programs, and financial assistance to ensure sustainable growth.
