Three promising entrepreneurs from Enugu have been awarded a total of ₦4.5 million to support their businesses after excelling in the Enugu SME Bootcamp, an event that highlighted the innovative spirit within the local business community. The Bootcamp was organized by the Enugu SME Agency in collaboration with 234Finance and Voice of the East.
The event, designed to foster entrepreneurship in the region, featured a series of activities that showcased the best of Enugu's entrepreneurial talents. A keynote speech focused on the power of collaboration among businesses to build stronger brands and achieve collective success. Additionally, a panel discussion brought together experts who engaged in thought-provoking conversations on sustainable growth and innovation in the South East.
The main highlight of the event was the pitching competition, where entrepreneurs presented their groundbreaking ideas to an esteemed panel of judges. The panel included Hon. Arinze Chilo Offiah, the Special Adviser to Governor Mbah on Digital Economy and MSMEs and Director General of Enugu SME Center; Chinny Okoye, Group CEO of Eastside Ventures and Founder of The Women International; Dr. Munachino Obinna Eze, Founder of Mina Real Estate Limited; Ejike Egbuagu, Founder of Moneda Invest; and Ezinne Nwazulu, Founder of 234Finance.
Angela Jidechukwu Nwabueze of Jelapetra Farms emerged as the top winner, receiving a ₦2 million prize. Chibuike Nnebe of Astrae claimed the runner-up spot with ₦1.5 million, while Okereke Kate of Kavita Foods secured the second runner-up prize of ₦1 million.
Hon. Chilo-Offiah expressed pride in the participants, stating, "Our participants presented their innovative ideas with passion and determination. Their dedication and creativity were truly remarkable, reflecting the potential of our local entrepreneurs. We are incredibly proud of all the participants, and we can’t wait to see what they achieve next."
He also extended his gratitude to the Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, for his continued support towards SME and Startup Development in the state.
The Enugu SME Bootcamp has once again demonstrated the vibrancy and potential of the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Enugu, setting a strong foundation for future growth and innovation in the region.
