Unity Bank Plc has disbursed over ₦270 million in grants to young Nigerian entrepreneurs under its Youth Entrepreneurship Development Initiative, popularly known as the Corpreneurship Challenge.

This brings the total number of beneficiaries since the programme’s inception in 2019 to 608 corps members nationwide.

The initiative, implemented in partnership with the National Youth Service Corp, NYSC, through its Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development, SAED, programme, is designed to equip fresh graduates with funding, confidence, and support to launch and grow viable businesses after national service.

In the most recent edition of the Corpreneurship Challenge, held between November 18 and December 9, 2025, 30 corps members emerged as winners during the NYSC Batch C, Stream I orientation exercise. The pitching sessions were conducted across 10 NYSC orientation camps nationwide.

The latest beneficiaries were selected from camps in Lagos, Delta, Kaduna, Jigawa, Kwara, Enugu, Abia, the Federal Capital Territory, Akwa Ibom, and Plateau State, after presenting innovative business ideas spanning various sectors of the economy.

Speaking on the sustained impact of the programme, the Bank’s Divisional Head, Retail and SME, Mrs. Adenike Abimbola, described entrepreneurship as a key driver of inclusive economic growth.

“At Unity Bank, we recognise that entrepreneurship remains one of the most effective tools for tackling youth unemployment and driving inclusive economic growth.

Through the Corpreneurship Challenge, we are not only providing financial support but also instilling confidence in young graduates to transform viable ideas into sustainable businesses. Reaching over 600 beneficiaries since inception reinforces our belief in the immense potential of Nigeria’s youth,” she said.

Abimbola added that the programme plays a critical role in strengthening Nigeria’s MSME ecosystem and creating long-term economic value.

“Small and medium-scale enterprises are the backbone of any resilient economy. By supporting corps members at the earliest stage of their entrepreneurial journey, we are helping to build businesses that can create jobs, stimulate local economies, and contribute meaningfully to national development. Our focus is on impact that goes beyond grants and translates into lasting livelihoods,” she noted.

The Corpreneurship Challenge provides a competitive platform where corps members pitch business ideas evaluated on originality, feasibility, market demand, scalability, and job-creation potential. Successful participants receive grants to kick-start or expand their ventures, alongside access to business guidance and mentorship.

Since its launch, the initiative has supported youth-led enterprises across sectors such as agribusiness, fashion, food processing, creative services, manufacturing, and retail.