Harboursandport.com: Lagos – Entrepreneurial and Leadership Initiative, an acclaimed initiative dedicated to empowering Nigerian entrepreneurs, has announced the opening of applications for its 2024 cohort.
Since its
inception in 2019, Cascador has made significant strides in supporting local
business growth, providing mentorship, education, and a robust support network
to foster the next generation of business leaders in Nigeria.
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"There's
so much good work to be done here in Lagos," said Dave DeLucia, Cascador
Co-Founder, in a chat with newsmen in Lagos. "Our participants benefit
from being part of a local network that supports and nurtures their
growth."
Cascador's
program has drawn participants from across Nigeria, including major cities like
Lagos, Kaduna, and Abuja, and has welcomed applicants from other African
nations such as Lesotho, Kenya, and Ghana. However, its primary focus remains
on Nigeria to build a strong, supportive community within the country.
The program
targets mid-stage entrepreneurs who have been in operation for at least two
years and generate annual sales revenue exceeding ₦50,000,000.
It is highly
selective, accepting only 10 fellows each year. This year, Cascador introduces
a personal development stipend of $5,000 USD for each participant. Applications
for the 2024 cohort close on June 30, 2024. Interested entrepreneurs can apply
at www.cascador.org/apply-now.
Cascador's
approach includes a five-day intensive workshop followed by six months of
mentorship, aiming to help entrepreneurs overcome the significant challenges of
starting and running a business in Nigeria. For example, a microfinance bank in
Kaduna tripled its client base from 4,000 to 15,000 women traders with
Cascador's guidance.
"We
invest in people who are coachable and show a strong desire to learn and
grow," DeLucia added. "Our participants are not only open to mentorship
but also demonstrate proven market traction and clarity of thought."
“The impact
of Cascador extends beyond individual businesses to the broader Nigerian
economy. By supporting mid-sized, high-potential growth companies that often
lack adequate resources, Cascador fills a critical gap in the business
community” said Blessing Mene, Cascador Co-Founder.
The
initiative prioritizes businesses that create jobs, improve livelihoods, and
contribute to Nigeria's economic development.
"Our
goal is not to make money but to make an impact," said Trish Thomas,
Cascador Faculty. "We provide education and support, training
entrepreneurs to raise money and connecting them to equity funding, debt
financing, and grants. By supporting Nigerian entrepreneurs, we aim to
contribute to the country's economic growth and development."
As Cascador
continues to nurture Nigerian business leaders, its success stories, including
alumni collectively raising over $55M USD in capital, highlight the power of
mentorship and community support in driving entrepreneurial success.
"Our
mission is to make a positive impact by helping entrepreneurs who want to make
a difference in their communities," DeLucia explained.
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