BATNF Awards Start-Up Grants to FUNAAB Graduate Agripreneurs
The British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation (BATNF) has awarded 6 million Naira in start-up grants to four graduate agripreneurs from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB).
Chris Oyeoku Okafor 
The British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation (BATNF) has demonstrated its commitment to empowering young agripreneurs by awarding start-up grants to four graduate entrepreneurs from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB). The grants, totaling 6 million Naira, were presented during the culmination of Phase III of the FUNAAB-BATN Graduate Agripreneurs program.
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The event, which took place at the 300-Seater Lecture Theatre in the College of Agricultural Management and Rural Development (COLAMRUD) Phase II Building, saw nine finalists pitching their innovative business ideas through PowerPoint presentations. Following a rigorous selection process, Miss Oluwafunmilayo Adegboyega and Mr. Oluwaseun Akosile were awarded grants for Broiler Production, Mr. Johnson Fashina for Fish Farming, and Mr. Oluwayomi Olajide for Catfish Farming.
Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development), Prof. Kola Adebayo, emphasized the competitive nature of the selection process, which began with 46 applicants. Prof. Adebayo commended BATNF's consistent support, which has now expanded the program to benefit four deserving agripreneurs.
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The selection committee evaluated participants' presentations based on entrepreneurial skills, innovation, business relevance, financial projections, and presentation skills. Mr. Oludare Odusanya, General Manager of BATNF, highlighted the criteria used for evaluation, emphasizing the importance of capacity-building and the uniqueness of business plans.
Sharing her success story, Miss Aderanti Oni, a previous grant recipient, spoke passionately about her journey in broiler production and its contribution to promoting a healthy nation. Her experience serves as an inspiration for future agripreneurs.
The panel of judges included distinguished university and BATNF officials, ensuring a thorough and fair evaluation process. Notable attendees included representatives from FUNAAB's administrative and academic leadership, as well as key members of the BATNF team.
The event underscored BATNF's commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and sustainable agriculture, aligning with its mission to contribute positively to Nigeria's socio-economic development.
For more information about BATNF and its initiatives, visit BATNF's official website.
