BATN to Fund Viable Agri-Business Models of Young Nigerians

By Aduragbemi Omiyale

Season two of the Farmers for the Future (F4F) project put together by the British America Tobacco Nigeria Foundation (BATNF) has commenced.

The Farmers for the Future 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 was developed and sponsored by the British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation in partnership with NYSC and implemented by SAED Connect.

According to the organisers, the project is expected to empower young entrepreneurs in the agricultural sector in Nigeria as it provides a great opportunity 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 of their businesses.

According to information released on the BATN Foundation social media handles, to qualify for the Farmers for the Future Grant 2021, the applicant must be a young Nigerian with a viable agri-business model, must demonstrate a strong passion for agriculture, and may be currently serving in the National Youth Service Corps.

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 1st Cash Prize, N2 million as 2nd Cash Prize, and N1 million as 3rd 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 and interested persons can visit the Farmers for the Future website on www.wealthishere.org for application and further details.