By Our Reporter
The British America Tobacco Nigeria Foundation (BATNF) has commenced the second season of its Farmers for the Future (F4F) project, which is aimed at empowering young agricultural entrepreneurs in Nigeria.
The scheme provides opportunities for young and enthusiastic farmers with viable agri-business models that are in need of equity-free capital to access grants for their enterprises. It also provides associated support required for the scaling up of their businesses.
The F4F Grant 2021 is targeted at serving National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, aged 18 years and above, and is part of BATNF’s drive to encourage and support young Nigerians in sustainable agriculture.
The initiative is developed and sponsored by the BATNF in partnership with NYSC and implemented by SAED Connect. According to information released on the BATN Foundation social media handles, to qualify for the grant, applicants must be young Nigerians with viable agri-business models, must demonstrate strong passion for agriculture, and may be currently serving in the NYSC.
BATNF is making a financial commitment of N16 million in cash and business support for the 2021 grants. This includes the award of N3 million as first cash prize, N2 million as second cash prize, and N1 million as third cash prize.
Other benefits that will accrue to the winners, include technical support to establish their agribusiness; participation in an intensive, “Think-through-your-business” boot camp; mentorship under seasoned entrepreneurs and agriculture experts; and opportunities for follow-on financing/or credit facilities from financial institutions and investors.
Winners will also enjoy membership of the F4F alumni network, participation in other partner-driven training programmes and support with business registration, as well as other legal and regulatory requirements. Application for the grant ends on March 12.