The National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP) has officially launched the 2024 Presidential Pitch competition, themed ‘Power and Possibilities,’ to empower young entrepreneurs and bring their innovative ideas to life.
To launch presidential pitch season 5, Ms Abigail Swad Laryea, Deputy CEO of NEIP explained that this year’s competition features five core sectors: agriculture, FinTech and technology, manufacturing and processing, tourism and creative arts, and TVET, plus an additional ‘other business category’ to accommodate pioneering ideas.
After a rigorous evaluation process, the top 30 finalists will be narrowed down to the top 10, who will then present their ideas to the President at the Movenpick Hotel. The judges’ decisions will determine funding awards from the enhanced prize package of 3 million Ghana cedis, with the winner receiving 250,000 Ghana cedis and the overall winner taking home the grand prize of 300,000 Ghana cedis.
According to her, eligibility criteria remain the same, requiring applicants to be Ghanaian citizens with innovative, creative, and feasible business ideas that demonstrate scalability and impact.
The competition aims to empower young entrepreneurs to turn their ideas into successful businesses, creating jobs and addressing societal problems. The website for applications has been launched, and interested entrepreneurs are encouraged to apply.”
Adombila E. Bukari, CEO of Havilah Organics Africa, and Akua Oppong Attah, CEO of Eeish Therapeutiel, winners of the 2023 Presidential Pitch, expressed their heartfelt appreciation to the President and staff of the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP) for their support.
According to them, Participating in the Presidential Pitch was a turning point for their businesses. “The timely funding and quality training we received enabled us to scale up production and overcome seasonal challenges.”
They added that the funding also helped them establish a formal packaging facility and employ additional staff, including ladies who assist with packaging.” They emphasized their gratitude for the assistance from NEIP. “We look forward to continued growth and success, thanks to the program’s support.”
Source: Oyerepafmonline.com/Bernard K Dadzie
