The National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP) has clarified concerns surrounding the implementation of the Adwumawura Programme, stressing that the initiative goes beyond funding and is designed to comprehensively build the capacity of youth-owned businesses across the country.

In an update issued by the Chief Executive Officer of NEIP, Mr. Eric Adjei, the programme was described as a multi-layered intervention aimed at supporting at least 10,000 youth-led businesses annually through training, mentorship, certification support and access to funding.

According to Mr. Adjei, beneficiaries of the Adwumawura Programme have already completed five weeks of intensive entrepreneurship training nationwide.

He noted that the training partners and innovation hubs engaged under the programme are providing continuous mentorship for a period of six months to participants who opt for it.

He further explained that beneficiaries are being supported to refine their business plans, which are to be submitted to NEIP for assessment.

An independent Grant Management Committee is expected to be inaugurated soon to evaluate the submitted business plans and make recommendations for grant funding.

As part of efforts to support agribusinesses, Mr. Adjei disclosed that NEIP has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry of Food and Agriculture under the “Nkokonketee Programme.”

He said training partners have been tasked to compile a list of Adwumawura beneficiaries interested in poultry farming to enable NEIP provide birds and feed to support their operations.

He added that the Authority is awaiting the complete list from all training partners and innovation hubs.

The NEIP CEO also announced plans to support ideation-stage businesses with business registration at the Office of the Registrar of Companies, as well as facilitate the acquisition of regulatory certifications from institutions such as the Food and Drugs Authority, Ghana Standards Authority and the Ghana Export Promotion Authority.

These measures, he said, are intended to remove bottlenecks that often hinder the growth of youth-owned enterprises.

Mr. Adjei reassured beneficiaries of NEIP’s commitment, dedication and determination to ensuring the success of their businesses.

He urged participants to ensure that their business plans have been duly submitted through their respective training partners and to prepare adequately for pitching before the Grant Disbursement Committee.

The Adwumawura Programme is one of NEIP’s flagship initiatives aimed at promoting entrepreneurship, job creation and sustainable economic growth among Ghana’s youth.