The British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation (BATNF), in partnership with NYSC and FATE Foundation, offers equity-free capital and comprehensive support to aspiring agricultural entrepreneurs

Application deadline: August 31, 2023

Farmers for the Future (F4F) Grant: Empowering Agri-Entrepreneurs

The Farmers for the Future (F4F) Grant is an agricultural entrepreneurship initiative poised to propel the dreams of young, innovative Agri-business owners. This grant, funded by the British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation (BATNF) and implemented in collaboration with NYSC and FATE Foundation, offers equity-free capital and comprehensive support to aspiring agricultural entrepreneurs. Its primary aim is to harness the potential of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, encouraging them to engage in sustainable agriculture while addressing youth unemployment.

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Objectives:

• Attracting Agribusiness: Make agribusiness a compelling career choice.
• Youth Employment Reduction: Combat youth unemployment through agriculture.
• Youth Engagement in Agriculture: Encourage active youth participation in agriculture.
• Youth Development: Foster the development of young agri-entrepreneurs.
• Agro-Practice Empowerment: Train and empower youth in agricultural best practices.

Benefits:

• Access to Finance: The top 6 finalists will secure equity-free grants totaling NGN 10 million (with #3m for the first Prize, #2m for the 2nd Prize, and #1m for the 3rd Prize).

  • Linkages to financial institutions and investors for subsequent financing or credit facilities.
  • Technical support for agribusiness establishment.

• Training & Capacity Building:

• Participation in an intensive "Think-through-your-business" boot camp.
• Mentorship by seasoned entrepreneurs and agricultural experts.
• Membership in the F4F alumni network.
• Participation in other partner-driven training programs.
• Assistance with business registration and compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

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Stages of Competition:

1. Application Submission: Apply online through the dedicated portal.
2. Virtual Bootcamp: The top 20 selected businesses undergo a rigorous virtual boot camp to refine their business theses and develop compelling pitches.
3. Pitch Event & Awards: The top 10 businesses from the boot camp pitch before a panel of expert judges and investors. Three winners are selected.
4. Mentorship: The three winners receive financing to execute, strengthen, advance, and scale their businesses under the guidance of seasoned mentors. They are also connected to vital networks to facilitate progress.
5. Join the F4F Alumni: Gain access to exclusive expert mentorship, insider opportunities, and a robust support network that paves the way for follow-on financing, entry into new markets, and more.