Total Energies modifies, upgrades Startupper challenge
Sopuruchi Onwuka
French energy multinational, TotalEnergies, has launched the third edition of its business Startupper Challenge which is traditionally designed to encourage, incubate and mentor smart business ideas into sustainable and viable enterprises.
Executive General Manager, TotalEnergies Country Services, Mrs Olubunmi Popoola-Mordi, said the third edition of the programme which is postponed from 2020 because of the coronavirus pandemic lockdowns confirms the company’s commitment to supporting young African entrepreneurs to sprout and grow.
According to her, the thirds edition which is designed to contribute to the economic and social development of the continent by supporting the youth would encourage projects that integrate the vision of sustainable development goals set out by the United Nations.
On offer are opportunities for business incubation, mentoring, exposure, networking with international players and financiers, commercial connectivity and seed capital of N5.0 million.
Prospective beneficiaries who must participate by direct application must be between 18 and 35 years of age, hold valid citizenship of the country, meet the aspirations of United Nations sustainable development goals in their proposals, indicate innovative character, and show strong business feasibility.
Three winners are expected from Nigerian participants under the criteria for Best Business Creation Projec, Best Startup under three years old, and Best Female Entrepreneur.
All winners are eligible for the full benefits of financial support, exposure, and personalized coaching.
The company’s records show that in the first edition of the programme in 2016, three winners including Opeyemi Owosho of Fitco Technology; Uzome Eleke of Zetaprime Technology; and Emeka Nwachinemere of Kitovu emerged winners.
In addition to three winning categories, TotalEnergies added Top Female Entrepreneur and Young Entrepreneur to select five winners in 2019. The winners include Olumide Ogunbanjo of Agrodata Netwerk; Justus Abaoye of Carido Automobile Service Technology; Ijir Oandosoor of My Waste, My Energy; Omotosho Oghenekevwe of ISABIWORK App; and Emmanue Ezenwere of Arone Aerial Logistics.
