The NYSC Enterprise Lab says it has trained and graduated 32 corps members, empowering them with startup knowledge and resources.
EGO Foundation, in partnership with Access Holdings, successfully concluded the 2025 Enterprise Lab: NYSC Edition, a hybrid business accelerator for serving National Youth Service Corps members and alumni.
The intensive programme, which ran from November 5 to 14, combined virtual learning with selected physical engagements to equip 32 corps entrepreneurs with critical skills in business modelling, financial literacy, and digital strategy.
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The programme culminated in a hybrid pitch day where three top ventures were selected for grant funding.
Toluwase Olaniyan, executive director of EGO Foundation, speaking about the initiative, said, “We set out to bridge the gap between potential and opportunity for our youth. The success of these 32 entrepreneurs, who have moved from ideas to investment-ready pitches, validates our approach. They are now equipped not just to seek jobs, but to create them.”
Designed to transform entrepreneurial ambition into viable enterprises, the initiative addressed youth under-employment through daily virtual sessions, in-person weekend clinics, mentorship, and practical assignments.
Participants developed sustainable business strategies and improved their investment readiness, emerging with strengthened business plans and operational clarity.
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The programme demonstrated a strong commitment to inclusivity, with 18 of the participating businesses being women-led. The final hybrid pitch day saw intense competition, with the three winning ventures receiving seed grants to launch and scale their operations. Additionally, the program supported the formalisation of 10 businesses by facilitating their CAC registration.
A representative of Access Holdings noted that the organisation’s partnership on the Enterprise Lab aligns with its commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and supporting promising ventures.
The statement emphasised that the strong outcomes from the cohort—including high engagement, improved financial literacy, and tangible business growth, demonstrate the effectiveness of combining training with funding access and long-term support in building a resilient economy.
The Enterprise Lab: NYSC Edition has established a strong alumni network to provide ongoing support, ensuring the sustained growth of these emerging enterprises and their contribution to Nigeria’s economic development.
