Do you have a business idea that can make a positive impact in Nigeria? Do you want to learn from experts and mentors how to turn your idea into a viable product or service? Do you want to access funding, markets, and customers for your business?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you should apply for the Orange Corners Nigeria Incubation Programme. This programme is an initiative of the Kingdom of Netherlands and implemented by FATE Foundation, a leading non-profit organisation that supports entrepreneurship development in Nigeria.

The Orange Corners Nigeria Incubation Programme is a six-month intensive programme that provides you with:

• Enterprise management training
• Business incubation and advisory services
• Funding for prototype development and testing
• Mentoring and coaching
• Networking and market linkages

The programme is designed to help you develop your idea from a concept to a market-ready product or service, while equipping you with the skills, knowledge, and resources you need to succeed as an entrepreneur.

Who Can Apply?

The programme is open to aspiring entrepreneurs who meet the following criteria:

• You are between 18 and 35 years old
• You reside in Lagos
• You have a business idea in one of the following sectors: circular economy, agriculture, health, water solutions, or tech
• You have a strong focus on gender balance
• You are computer literate and have access to a laptop or data-enabled device

How to Apply?

The application process consists of two stages:

Stage I: Fill out the online application form here. You will need to provide your personal details, business idea, and upload the following documents:

• Passport photograph
• School certificate or statement of result
• Birth certificate
• CAC registration (optional)

Stage II: If your application is shortlisted, you will be invited to a two-day bootcamp where you will pitch your idea to a panel of judges. The top 20 participants from each stream will be selected for the incubation programme.

When to Apply?

The programme runs in two streams per year. The application deadlines for each stream are:

• Stream 1: February 18, 2024
• Stream 2: June 16, 2024

What is the Cost?

The programme is free for entrepreneurs who are shortlisted to the bootcamp and incubation stage. This scholarship support from Orange Corners Nigeria covers all direct course fees. However, you are expected to cover your own transportation expenses to and from the training venue.

FAQs

• Q: How many entrepreneurs will be selected for the programme?
• A: For each stream, we will select 30 entrepreneurs for the bootcamp and 20 entrepreneurs for the incubation programme.
• Q: Can I edit my application after submitting it?
• A: No, once you submit your application, it is final and you cannot edit it. Also, multiple entries will be disqualified. We encourage you to verify your application carefully before submitting.
• Q: How will I know if I am shortlisted for the bootcamp?
• A: Only applicants shortlisted for the bootcamp stage will be contacted via email.
• Q: What is the time commitment for the programme?
• A: Participants are expected to be available for the full two-day bootcamp and partake in all activities of the six-month incubation programme. The selected participants will have access to the full programme agenda and timeline requirements after the completion of the selection process.
• Q: How can I contact the programme organisers?
• A: You can email us at orangecorners@fatefoundation.org. Also, follow @OrangeCornersNG and @FATEFoundation on social media to keep up to date with information and announcements regarding the programme.

Source: Orange Corners Nigeria