The Kajola Foundation has convened 30 shortlisted entrepreneurs and emerging business leaders in Lagos for a bootcamp designed to strengthen their business management skills ahead of the selection of beneficiaries for its business grant initiative.

The programme, held at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) in Alausa, Ikeja, was organised by the social impact arm of the Thursday Business Group (TBG) to promote enterprise development and help entrepreneurs build sustainable businesses.

Participants received training in business development, taxation, legal and regulatory compliance, and financial management. The sessions were designed to improve their understanding of business obligations, minimise avoidable risks and support informed decision-making in changing market conditions.

The foundation said the bootcamp also gave participants access to industry experts, practical business knowledge and strategies for managing and expanding their enterprises.

Olubunmi Oluwadare, a Certified Business Development Service Provider under the Federal Government’s Business Development Service Providers programme, delivered the keynote address titled “The Business of Becoming: Building, Scaling and Sustaining in an Uncertain World.”

His presentation focused on business growth, resilience and sustainability, examining approaches entrepreneurs could consider as they develop their ventures and navigate changing market conditions.

Titilope Raheem, a lawyer, addressed participants on “The Cost of Ignorance: How Legal and Compliance Mistakes Can Kill a Growing Business.” Her presentation highlighted the role of legal awareness and regulatory compliance in protecting businesses against preventable risks and promoting responsible operations.

Olaolu Olaniyi, founder of ComplyDesk, led a session titled “The Entrepreneur and the Taxman: Understanding Your Rights, Obligations and Opportunities.” He discussed tax awareness and the importance of understanding tax responsibilities as part of sound business management.

The Nigerian Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (NASME), Lagos Chapter, attended as a special guest organisation, underscoring the programme’s focus on strengthening small and medium-sized enterprises and supporting their long-term sustainability.

In addition to the training, the bootcamp created opportunities for participants to connect with business leaders and professionals, explore potential collaborations and establish relationships that could benefit their ventures.

The event also represented the final phase of the selection process for the Kajola Foundation’s business grant initiative. The 30 shortlisted entrepreneurs were expected to undergo business assessments during the programme, after which successful applicants would be selected to receive grants.

The names of the grant beneficiaries were not available at the time of reporting.

Through the combination of practical business training and grant assessments, the foundation aims to improve entrepreneurs’ knowledge of business operations while offering shortlisted candidates an opportunity to secure additional support for their enterprises.

Source: MSME Africa