BATN Foundation launches ‘Farmers for the Future Project’ Season II

*The British America Tobacco Nigeria Foundation commences Season II of its ‘Farmers for the Future (F4F) scheme that provides an opportunity for young and enthusiastic Nigerian farmers with viable agri-business models in need of equity-free capital to access grants for their enterprises

Emmanuel Akosile | ConsumerConnect

As part of its social empowerment initiatives to encourage and support young Nigerians in sustainable agriculture, the British America Tobacco Nigeria Foundation (BATNF) has commenced the second season of its Farmers for the Future (F4F) project.

The organisation in a statement made available to ConsumerConnect noted that the initiative, aimed at empowering young agric entrepreneurs in the country, is developed and sponsored by the BATNF in partnership with NYSC and implemented by SAED Connect.

The statement stressed the scheme provides a great opportunity for young and enthusiastic farmers with viable agri-business models that are in need of equity-free capital to access grants for their enterprises.

It also provides associated support required for the scaling of their businesses, it said.

BATNF further explained that the Farmers for the Future Grant 2021 is targeted at serving National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, aged 18 years and above, and is part of BATNF’s drive to encourage and support young Nigerians in sustainable agriculture.

Information released on the BATN Foundation social media handles also noted, that for prospective beneficiaries to qualify for the Farmers for the Future Grant 2021, an applicant must be a young Nigerian with a viable agri-business model, must demonstrate strong passion for agriculture, and may be currently serving in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme in the country.

It stated that BATNF is making a financial commitment of N16 million in cash and business support for the 2021 grants.

This includes the award of N3 million as 1st Cash Prize, N2 million as 2nd Cash Prize, and N1 million as 3rd Cash Prize.

Other benefits that will accrue to the winners, according to the Foundation, include technical support to establish their agribusiness; and participation in an intensive “Think-through-your-business” boot camp.

Others are mentorship under seasoned entrepreneurs and agriculture experts; and opportunities for follow-on financing/or credit facilities from financial institutions and investors.

Winners will also enjoy membership of the F4F alumni network, participation in other partner-driven training programmes and support with business registration as well as other legal and regulatory requirements, stated BATNF.

It added that application for the grant ends March 12, 2021, and interested persons can visit the ‘Farmers for the Future’ Web site at: www.wealthishere.org for application and further details.