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Monday, December 21, 2015

Friday, December 4, 2015

Enterprise radio set to host Enterprise connect(Entertainment Edition)


Enterprise radio is a premium online radio station with the mission of empowering entrepreneurs to grow and think globally. In her bid to add value to the SME sector, Enterprise radio will be organizing the second edition of her open mic session tagged Enterprise connect.

The maiden edition of the open mic sessions by Enterprise radio was held during the Global Entrepreneurship week. Highlights from the event can be found here.

Enterprise Connect is an empowerment cum networking session for budding and established entrepreneurs with the aim of equipping and empowering them to grow and maximize the opportunities around them. 

According to +Kehinde John Olagbenjo, Business development manager of Enterprise radio: "This is the right time to reach out to entrepreneurs. The role entrepreneurs play in the economy cannot be downplayed. This month we will be focusing on entrepreneurs and influencers in the showbiz industry.We are using this medium to call for partnerships and support"

This month's edition will be featuring Mercy Ajoke Ebosele,  Kpeace, Calibird, Bayray Mcnwinzu, Wunmi Toriola,Yetunde Bakare, Ayomide Dawodu, Vilara and other showbiz personalities.

The event is scheduled for 15th December 2015.

Venue: Ice lounge,Tafawa balewa street,Adeniran Ogunsanya surulere.
Time - 9.00am

It promises to be beyond the usual.

Make it a date.

Monday, November 30, 2015

Franchise Opportunity in Nigeria - Spring Meadow Edutainment and Meadow Hall Branchise


A few weeks ago, I got a call from an old friend Moninuade Illuyomade, She wanted me to come and talk to some aspiring entrepreneurs that were looking to take advantage of the Meadow hall franchise. 



I was concerned about the distance and timing, but passion prevailed and I agreed. I was glad I was there because I didn't just get to share my 2 cents on entrepreneurship but I learnt about new opportunities available for investors in Nigeria.

I focused on my top five things you need to know before you jump into business, starting with your "why".

I have a vlog series ongoing on this, if you haven't visited my vlog please click here to watch and subscribe.... thanks! 

Hehe... I was in my element! 



If you have been to Meadow Hall in Lekki, or met the Group CEO, Mrs. Kehinde Nwani, you would immediately feel all the excellence packed into this vision. I was given a tour round the facility and oh my God!! If I wasn't living so far away and of course if I had that plenty school fees money (hehe...Good things don't come cheap, let's face it) I would move my boys there immediately. 

Mrs. Kehinde Nwani, Group MD/CEO
I realized there is so much to gain from having healthy conversations with people, sometimes you catch a revelation that changes your whole life. This is what happened with Mr. Nwani, one minute she is discussing with a friend about expansion plans for meadow hall and her friend says, why don't you consider franchising? That was the aha moment and she dug up her legal notes and launched a full research on the possibilities.

With the current economic situation, running with an existing, tried and tested business model is the way to go! No kidding. No point spending money on trial and error. The franchise model is a win win, where the school gets to expand through you and you gain leverage. Don't get me wrong though, there will be challenges, but many of the basic hurdles will already be eliminated. 

Mrs Moninuade Iluyomade, breaking down the franchise benefits
I promised to share summary of the opportunity to a lot of people, below is an overview of the Meadow Hall Branchise and what it offers;

Cheers

Introduction

Meadow Hall Branchise is a subsidiary of the Meadow Hall Group. The aim of the Company is to manage the business expansion of the group by setting up branches for Meadow Hall School.

Who we are:
  • Meadow Hall Branchise is a subsidiary of Meadow Hall group. 
  • Branchise is a fusion of the words branch & franchise. 
  • Our aim is to create opportunities for our stakeholders.
What We do:
  • We set up branches for Meadow Hall Education, 
  • (A subsidiary of Meadow hall group). 
  • We oversee the franchising of different Meadow Hall Centres. 
  • These Centres are operated and managed by Spring Meadow Edutainment (A subsidiary of Meadow hall group) on behalf of Meadow Hall.
Our Vision:

To build and nurture a network of innovative and creative entrepreneurs who in turn will spread best practices in the education industry while simultaneously creating wealth in the economy.

What is franchising?

This is a relationship between the franchisor (Meadow Hall Branchise) and the franchisee (You) where the franchisor grants the franchisee the right to use a developed concept, including trademarks and brand name, service & marketing methods and the entire business operation model, for a fee.

What we Offer to Prospective Franchisees
 

An Opportunity to:
  • Be associated with a reputable Brand name.
  • Access a quality trademark.
  • Use an established and proven operating system.
  • Operate a successful Business model.
Your success is our success therefore we will provide strong operational, training & Marketing support to our franchisees.

What we offer the children

An opportunity to:
  • Harness their imagination
  • Unleash the endless potentials of their creativity
  • Gain mastery of their skills 
  • Develop their physical & artistic skills to its highest potential. 
Franchise Offering

1. Meadow Hall Music Academy
2. Meadow Hall STEM Centre
3. Meadow Hall Language School
4. Meadow Hall Art Centre
5. Meadow Hall Dance School
6. Special Education Needs Centre
7. Meadow Hall After School Centre
8. Meadow Hall Book Cafe
Selected Territories
Lagos:
  • VGC/Ajah 
  • Victoria Island 
  • Surulere 
  • Ikeja 
  • Gbagada 
  • Anthony/Maryland 
  • Magodo/ Ogudu

Outside Lagos:
  • Abuja 
  • Ibadan 
  • Port Harcourt. 
For further enquiry or registration & application please contact:

t: 0705 119 0415

e: miluyomade@meadowhallbranchise.com

w: www.meadowhallbranchise.com

tw: Meadowhall Branchise@mhallbranchise

Tuesday, November 24, 2015

Giggles n Gurgles - Olunike Gbabe #inthespiritofenterprise

Many times, we have ideas but keep procrastinating because we feel we have all the time in the world until we get a sudden jolt and we realize it's now or never. Life is short. Nike was grounded after an incident for months and it was in this moment of helplessness that she realized she had to do something.

Enjoy.....


Tell us about yourself

I am Olunike Gbabe. I am a banker and an entrepreneur, happily married to an awesome man and blessed with two (2) energetic boys. I have a first and second degree from the Obafemi Awolowo University Ile-Ife.

Tell us about your business

Giggles n Gurgles is a one-stop shop for all baby needs (feeding items, baby gears etc), clothing, shoes and accessories for children (new-born to age 12). It is a business borne out of passion. We offer convenience, quality and affordability.

Giggles n Gurgles was birthed out of my passion for seeing children looking well groomed without breaking the bank. I started the business in December 2011 from the comfort of my sitting room and today we own a brick & mortar as well as an online store.

I launched the Giggles n Gurgles brand as a result of the difficulty I experienced (and I know other moms also did) in getting a one-stop shop to shop quality and affordable clothing and shoes for my boys.

The passion to start was also fueled by my background knowledge in business which I gained working with my mom when I was growing up.



How did you get funding for your business?

I started very small with savings from my monthly salary.

What opportunities have you been able to leverage on in your business so far?

At the start of the business, I leveraged on relationship with friends within my social circle and colleagues at work and through them I was able to get referrals. Subsequently, our customer service orientation and product quality/affordability have enabled us retain our foundational customers and also attract/ retain new customers.


What was your inspiration for starting this business?

My inspiration to start this business and also keep at it has been God. I say this because HE gave me the inspiration to start when I was home for about 6 months recovering from an accident which made me immobile. Before the incidence of the accident, I had wanted to start a kids clothing business but always procrastinated.

What challenges have you faced so far and how have you been able to overcome them?

Some of the challenges we have faced like most other similar businesses has been the issue of new customers comparing our prices with that of products which are of lesser quality. However, the customers who eventually buy come back with testimonials of the durability and uniqueness of our products and also do repeated business with us.



How will you summarize the journey so far?

The journey thus far has been challenging but also very interesting, seeing the business grow from the confines of my home in December 2011, to opening a brick and mortar store in June 2012 and launching an online store in December 2014. My major joy comes from the positive testimonials from customers who patronize us and also seeing my vision of offering people convenience, durability and affordability in clothing their kids (and making the kids giggle…) come into fruition.

Given the chance, will you do this again?

I would say an emphatic Yes.

What lessons have you been able to learn from your journey so far that others should know?

The major lesson is to commit all ones plans, ideas and ambition totally into God’s hands. He desires that we succeed in our endeavors even more than we do, He has never failed! Also as an entrepreneur, I have learnt to be focused and to combine my passion with tenacity.

I would encourage aspiring entrepreneurs to follow their passion. Whatever factors that cannot stop you from starting cannot stop you from fulfilling your dreams. Start somehow and leave the rest to God.

How can people connect with you?

Our physical store is located at No 2 Ladipo Olukoya Street, Off Oyedele Ogunniyi Street, Anthony Lagos. You can also visit our online store www.giggleskiddies.com.
We are also on facebook: www.facebook.com/gigglesngurgles, on instagram @giggleskiddies. We can also be reached directly via telephone on 08036685443, 08095933933.
Our BBM pin is 7B7DB25C and my Email address is nike_fawole@yahoo.com.

Be rest assured that we have competent hands to attend to you when you reach us on any of the above medium.

Monday, November 23, 2015

APPLY FOR THE ROAD TO WOMEN’S BUSINESS GROWTH PROJECT



The Road to Women’s Business Growth project is a unique initiative which will build the business skills of women entrepreneurs in Nigeria.

The project aims to increase women’s access to financial services and markets and empower them to grow profitable and sustanable business, ultimately promoting their long-term economic independence.

There is no registration fee. However, please note that participants are requested to cover travel/transportation costs to the project’s training centres located in three cities: Lagos, Abuja or Uyo.

Project Structure

The project will focus on providing support to women entrepreneurs through its two phased approach:
Phase I

500 small business owners will be trained in financial literacy and investment readiness over six (6) weeks, including two classroom workshops and four weeks of e-learning (January – March 2016).
Phase II

100 top performing women entrepreneurs (out of the 500) will receive intensive business support in the form of tailored business training and services and ongoing mentoring over six months (from May 2016).

To be eligible for this program you need to:

1. Own a business in Nigeria.

2. Operate a business in a high-growth sector.

3. Have 3 – 49 staff.

4. Have an annual turnover of N3-20 million.

5. Have English language fluency

6. Have a business which has generated profit for at least 2 years.

7. Have a strong desire and commitment to grow your business.

8. Have basic computer literacy

9. Have a need for additional investment and have had no previous access to formal financial services

Application Process

The deadline for application is 5pm on 10 December 2015. Applications will be evaluated as they arrive, and selections will be made on a rolling basis. Places will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

Selection results will be announced in January 2016

APPLY NOW

For questions please contact Lola at Lfalokun@pau.edu.ng or call 08174583173.

Saturday, November 21, 2015

Enterprise Radio celebrates Global entrepreneurship week

On tuesday, 17th November enterprise radio threw her doors open for an open mic session with entrepreneurs. The theme for the event was "building entrepreneurs through information". Those in attendance got a chance to experience the live productions, meet with and take #selfies (you know we love selfies) with the OAPs as well as network with other business owners and aspiring business owners.

The event was to celebrate the global entrepreneurship week, an awareness campaign to sensitize people across the world about entrepreneurship as well as get everyone talking about entrepreneurship and entrepreneurship related issues.



The session opened with an address by Kehinde Adegbulugbe followed by a brief summary of the mission and vision of the station by Kehinde John Olagbenjo (we are a Kehindefull studio, lol).

Kehinde Adegbulugbe

Kehinde Olagbenjo

+Samuel B. Obafemi , Business coach, behavioral change expert and Strategist launched the open mic session with insightful lessons on how to structure your business. First thing he pointed out was how important emotional mastery is, you must know yourself before you can start to serve others, which is what business is really about.

Some of the key points highlighted were

- Document your processes
- Map out your Communication Strategy (how you relate with your customers)
- Ensure all employees are aware of the office culture

Yours truly with Sam Obafemi

Other businesses that participated in the Open Mic Session were, Sanguine Spa, Hurlars kitchen, Ogolicieux cakes and Mr. Olufeso Oladehinbo, a farmer/farm consultant who came in from Odogbolu for the event.

Manager, Sanguine Spa ( currently running a package promo)
http://www.sanguinespahealthandbeauty.com/

CEO, Hurlars Kitchen with OAP Wumy Oduloye

The Kitchen CEO, Wumy with CEO Ogooliceux cakes
08080255300 instagram - @ogoolicieux

CEO, HurlarsKitchen
07080518080 instagram - @hurlarrs_kitchen

Mr. Olufeso Oladehinbo, CEO Western Associates. Poultry & Crops farmer
westonassociates@yahoo.com, 0807 305 3274
It was a day of fun and re-affirmation of Enterprise Radio's commitment to Entrepreneurship development in Nigeria and beyond.

Happy people



So, what did you do to celebrate the entrepreneurship week? What events did you attend? Share your experience.

Monday, November 9, 2015

Ignite Ideas Contest..... Apply now

Will 100,000 make a difference to your business? Is that the amount you need to jumpstart your business? If yes, this is for you. If no, hurry over to the previous post, but think deeply about this first. An over funded business can be as toxic as an under funded business. 

Many times people raise the issue of funding, they complain and blame the banks, the family members that dont assist, the government and so on, then you ask them that critical question, how much do you need? Er.... there you go. So before you go shopping for funds, be clear on exactly how much you need and what you need it for. 






The application for N100,000 interest-free loan for micro, small and medium scale enterprises as well as individuals with a viable business idea is still open.

Apply before the deadline and stand a chance to be one of the 1,100 great business ideas to access an interest free loan of N100,000 powered by Mrs Ibukun Awosika, +FirstBank Nigeria and the Lagos state government. You not only get to win this interest free loan but you also get access to capacity building programs from the Ignite Ideas team led by Mrs Ibukun Awosika.

The loan is not only interest free but comes with a 3 month moratorium after which payment is spread over a period.

Apply at http://www.igniteideas.org

Follow ignite ideas on Twitter: @IgniteContest

Thursday, November 5, 2015

A unique opportunity for Start-Ups!

In Africa as elsewhere, many young people aspire to start their own business and build a brighter future, which is why we’ve created the « Startupper of the year by Total »challenge.



Ideas deserve support, especially great ones. And promising ideas deserve a helping hand.

Google, Facebook, Daily Motion, Twitter, Deezer, Airbnb and other leading names in the 2.0 economy all started as the brainchild of inspired young people. There’s no shortage of startuppers in Africa — iCow(1), Afate 3D Printer(2), CardioPad(3), Obami(4), Sense Ebola Follow up(5) and M-Iouma(6) are already shaking up the continent.

IF YOU’RE CURRENTLY PREPARING A BUSINESS PLAN OR ARE IN THE EARLY STAGES OF CREATING YOUR OWN BUSINESS, YOU’RE ELIGIBLE TO ENTER OUR CHALLENGE!

Total Wants You

Are you under 35 years old? Do you want to create a business or develop one that is less than two years old? Are you a citizen of one of these 34 African countries: Algeria, Angola, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Chad, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Ghana, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mauritius, Morocco, Mozambique, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Republic of Guinea, Republic of the Congo, Reunion, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, Togo, Tunisia, Uganda, Zambia or Zimbabwe?* If so, this challenge is for you!

We’re interested in all your projects, regardless of the type of business or activity, as long as they share the characteristics common to creative start-ups: innovation, competitiveness, growth boosting and job creation.

*The contestant must be a citizen of the country where its application is submitted in order to create or develop its project there. Only one application by contestant is admitted.
ENTER THE CHALLENGE!

Create a profile here to take part.

To enter, create your profile and provide the required information online. To support, justify and illustrate your project, you can attach as many documents as you wish to your application, including:
  • your résumé,
  • your business plan,
  • your financing plan,
  • your partnership strategy,
  • an executive summary,
  • a marketing brochure,
  • your logo,
  • your graphic standards,
  • and/or a photo or video presentation, etc.
Think Global, Act Local

What challenges need to be tackled where you live? How will your innovative project address them? After you show us how, we’ll support those of you who will inspire, create, invest, hire and produce, all to transform "your" world

1 Kenyan start-up. Agricultural information service by mobile phone.
2 Togolese start-up. 3D printers made from discarded electronics.
3 Cameroonian start-up. Touch screen medical tablet designed to save lives.
4 South African start-up. Alternative learning platform.
5 Nigerian start-up. A mobile tool to help contain Ebola.
6 Senegalese start-up. Country’s first online agricultural stock exchange.


Wednesday, October 14, 2015

Future Leadership Conference 2015


I met and had a chat with the convener of the Future leadership conference yesterday at the enterprise radio studio. He was my guest, but the conversation continued off air. Mark is a man with a vision and I am inspired by his push and drive to impact lives.

If you follow me on instagram @mofolusade you would have read a little bit about his story, from working for 10years with vanguard to loosing all of his gratuity payment within 6months to a logistics business he invested in and to getting through this to start afresh. 

I had a short interview with him off air and thought to share.

Meanwhile, the conference is tomorrow, 15th October 2015 and its free to attend if you just register. There will be opportunities for fresh graduates and students. 



Tell us about yourself?

I am serial innovator, God's ambassador, convener of Future Leadership Conference.

How did you feel after your first business collapsed?

It was an awful experience that left little to be desired, but I am stronger today because I went through that dark tunnel!

How did you get back on your feet?

I did a lot of volunteering work. I believe in God's ability to use my pain for His glory this was what kept me going!

What is your "selfish" reason for starting your business 
(okay so, the  kamaroozy boss made me add this question. He believes everybody has a "selfish" reason for doing anything, even if they won't admit, what do you think?)

I see old men working and breaking their backs to build other's people business only to retire to the rocking chairs too old to run their show I don't want this to be my story.

What is the vision behind the future leadership conference?

I believe the change we seek and advocate begins with us,we are championing this course by creating a mentorship platform that will facilitate individual transformation.

How have you sustained it this far?

This is more than a good idea to me this is a calling! So at the first stage in this project I injected my personal funds to kick start it, with the assistance of like minds that are as passionate about this. However, we greatly anticipate support and partnership from corporate organizations to do more.

Who are the speakers at this year's event?

  • Mr. Guy Murray Bruce, VP Silverbird Group @guybruce
  • Japheth Omojuwa, International Journalist @ Omojuwa
  • Alibaba, King of Nigerian Stand up comedy @Alibaba
  • Dr Austin Izagbo, CEO/Chairman Cainz group
  • Dr Samson Makinwa, CEO/Chairman Techno Quip Ltd
  • Mayor Esiaba, Brand Management & Digital Marketing Professional @mayoresiaba
  • Prof Ahonsi O.Simeon, President/CEO Sim Group
  • Barr. Zuriel Olowe, Master NLP Practitioner and therapist @olowe
  • Timi Dakolo, Singer/Songwriter
  • Diamond David, Artist
  • Yomi Olaniwun, Founder, BB Buzz @bbbuzz, 
  • Mr Olatunji Akinbo, CEO Triple 7 events
  • Victoria Ibiwoye, Founder, One Africa Child
  • Uche Ogbonna, Author, Method to my madness
How can participants get into the 6 months internship program with Rosabel advertising 

By participating in The "best innovative idea" contest visit www.futureleadershipconference.com

What about the scholarships for empowerment training with  +Adplus360 ?
Adplus 360 will be empowering 20 participants at this conference.

What are you top three lessons in your entrepreneurship journey
  • Never settle for less than the best
  • Resist the temptation to fit in, stand out
  • Consistency and focus is a basic requisite..follow your passion it will lead you to your treasure!


Wednesday, October 7, 2015

#MillionaireBossin15seconds – Win 1 Million Naira for your Legit Hustle from Charles Okpaleke

Stumbled on this yesterday and thought to share. Many more people are coming up with innovative ways to support young entrepreneurs. Everyday, there is one new opportunity or the other, don't let any opportunity pass over you. Rehearse your pitch and make sure the main points are captured within 15seconds, then upload to instagram, you're always there playing anyway! lol. The full step by step information on what you need to do is below. 

All the best!



They say, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step“. My name is Charles Okpaleke, and I’m here to inspire a young entrepreneur by providing him/her means to take that ‘first step’ in starting and growing a successful business.

By God’s grace, I’m an entrepreneur today. I am one of the directors of  +Play Entertainment Network  and its subsidiaries.

I am aware that raising start-up funds is one of the most challenging aspects of starting a new business. I am here to strengthen your motivation and desire to succeed by offering 1,000,000 naira business grant to a young entrepreneur with the best business idea. All you need to do is pitch it to a team of judges in 15 seconds. Yes, 15 seconds.

You must not necessarily have a grand proposal with an intricate business plan; a small lucrative idea that addresses a real and demonstrated public need is what I am looking for. We all hustle to get to the next level. “Realizing that anyone can do it is the first step. The next step is figuring out how you’re going to do it”.

How to Enter:

  • Follow @playnetworknigeria on instagram
  • Make a 15seconds instagram video summarizing your business plan
  • Post the video on your own instagram page with the hash tag#millionairebossin15seconds and tag @playnetworknigeria
  • Your video will be reposted on @playnetworknigeria instagram page and you will be tagged
  • If your video (business summary) makes the top 5 videos with the highest number of likes (not paid likes), you will be invited to Abuja to meet with the judges
  • If you’re invited to Abuja you will be given the opportunity to explain in detail your business plan, and if yours is the best you’re taking the 1,000,000 naira home
Contest begins TODAY and ends on October 31st! (Well, it began yesterday actually)

Tuesday, October 6, 2015

Jenniez Design Concept - Jennifer Uzoamaka Chukwujekwe #inthespiritofenterprise


Guess who now has an app for her blog? Me.. me... me!! Whoop Whoop. You can download the app here, this way you can easily access the blog from your phone without having to bother with remembering the url and stuff. Remember +Chibuike Wogu, he built this marketing plan workbook that I featured on my blog a while back. Well he develops apps to!! I got this as a post birthday gift :-) . Will share more about what he's up to these days in another post, I am thinking of doing an update on all the entrepreneurs that have been featured here since 2013 when it all began. Stay tuned for that.

Today's show case is a fellow mumpreneur. I met her in 2011 at a fair in Unilag, we stayed in touch off and on since then. She's a blogger too but with a focus on her passion in travel and interior design. Jennifer is one of the most hardworking women I know and she never gives up. Read all about her interior design business and passion below;

Enjoy!

Tell us about yourself

I am Mrs.Jennifer Uzoamaka Chukwujekwe. A graduate of Geology with a Masters in Applied Computing and IT from the University of Bedfordshire, UK. My philosophy of life is - Life is too short, so live life to the fullest with a purpose and impact lives.

Tell us about your business

I'm the Creative Director of Jenniez Design Concept. I have always had a passion for interior design and for years always helped family and friends recreate a space. I always change the look of my home every year as I always get tired of a look and want to redecorate . However, my passion became a business when my friends kept nudging me to take my passion to the next level. JDC as a business started two years ago.

JDC offers interior design services such as furniture manufacturing, color consultation, wall and window treatments, kitchen and bathroom design, space planning , project management for residential, commercial and corporate clients. Our aim is to transform your space based on your preferences and budget

What was your inspiration for starting this business?




My passion for interior design and desire for quality and affordable furniture and furnishings which is of international standards led to Jenniez Design Concept. I started as an Interior design blogger to enlighten people about Interior design and share design tips. As my followers grew it became necessary to provide interior design services.



How did you get funding for your business?

So far I haven't got any grants or awards. But I have leveraged on mentoring programs from established people in the interior design industry.

What Challenges have you faced so far and how have you been able to overcome them?

Challenges we have faced was getting skilled labour and sourcing quality materials and products required to provide excellent services. We have been able to overcome the challenge of skilled labour by training our workers, so as to expose them to newer innovation and designs. Regarding products we have established good relationships with companies based in Nigeria who provide quality products and we also import if the need arises.


How will you summarize the journey so far?

It has been inspiring despite the challenges but we are looking forward to being in every household in Nigeria.

Given the Chance, will you do this again?

Yes, Yes, Yes

What lessons have you been able to learn from your journey so far that others should know.

Start small and grow your business. Cheaper to make mistakes when you start small. Make sure all your staff understand your vision and run with it. Excellence, professionalism and Integrity are key.



If I could tell young entrepreneurs valuable lessons they would be:

Whatever business you do, go for your passion. Passion will keep you in the business even when things are tough.

How can people connect with you

www.jenniezdesignconcept.blogspot.com
Facebook- jenniez design concept
Instagram- @JENNIEZDESIGN
Twittter- jenniez14
08068866001 and 09093895151

Tuesday, September 22, 2015

Mooner's Faith - Moyebi I Johnson #inthespiritofenterprise


I get excited when I meet people who are doing something that many people claim cannot be done in Nigeria. So when Johnson told me about his inventions, I naturally took a liking to him. He studied the same engineering that many of us studied, in this same Nigeria, but he has been able to apply his own knowledge to solve live problems.

When I share all these stories, the idea is not to sugar coat it and make entrepreneurship look more glamorous than it actually is. The aim is to showcase those who have dared to try and hopefully inspire someone that it is possible!

Johnson still needs a serious marketer on his team, who believe in the product and can get it out there? You could be that someone.

Read about the SWIG(rtm) invention here;

Enjoy!

Tell us about yourself


I am Moyebi I. Johnson. I am a native of Ilaje in Ondo State of Nigeria. I have B.Sc in Surveying and Geo-informatics, University of Lagos. I also took some certificate courses in Information Technology. I believe with aspiration and determination, impossibilities could become possibilities.

Newly wedded couple on their honey-moon are always optimistic of better future. Someone also conceptualized landing on the moon, that old tall dream is now a history of an inventor. Hence the name 'Mooner's Faith'.

Tell us about your business

Mooner's Faith Ltd was registered in 2013. I registered Brill Sat ltd in 2005 with focus on providing GIS services while Mooner's Faith was focused on recycling, new product design and eventually production. Mooner's Faith was aimed at recycling old items to help the environment. Also to design simple products that will eliminate avoidable communicable diseases contacted through social life. Its our little way of promoting good environment and health care



What was your inspiration for starting this business?

I know there are many avoidable communicable diseases being spread through sharing of items in bars (i.e Cup), if it's washed with dirty water or not washed at all. Straws are good but will not prevent flies and dirt from entering your drink, someone even said 'I don't want anything to be dropped in my drink', Its not also convenient to drink from can and PET bottles directly while driving, the bar operators need to be saved from trouble of gathering glass cups all the time only to lose them due to broken glasses. Nipple is fun and natural to children when drinking from their water bottle. These issues necessitated development of 'SWIG(rtm) Nipple'.



How did you get funding for your business?

90% savings and 10% friends intervention.

What opportunities have you been able to leverage on in your business so far?

I had the opportunity of working with a seasoned professor more than a decade ago, Prof. Peter O. Adeniyi. He made me discover myself by giving me assignments that gave me exposure to the business world. He encouraged me to further my studies. To him no task was Insurmountable. This core value helped me overcome many challenges in life.

What Challenges have you faced so far and how have you been able to overcome them?

One major challenge is the lack of well equipped public technical workshops. Apart from machines you also need access to professional 3D software which is not available. I could remember I went to Owode Onirin but my design suffered alignment problems due to lack of calibration of the Lathe machines.

However, I want to really thank the inventors of internet and google search engine. I was able to get a free 3d software downloaded. After designing my product at the comfort of my room, I sourced manufacturer in china. But honestly they are things we can do here in Nigeria.

How will you summarize the journey so far?

The journey so far has been interesting. You are bound to face challenges but do not be a 'one-way' person otherwise your challenges may become bottle neck. For you to succeed please set achievable goals with less or no external intervention, you can later expand.

Given the Chance, will you do this again?

I am inquisitive and curious in nature. Research has become an interesting hobby to me. Therefore, I will like to do this over and over. Learning new things gives me joy.

What lessons have you been able to learn from your journey so far that others should know.

Former president Obasanjo said we should be a 'do tank'. He is very right, both 'think tank and do tank' are very important. Look around, you will see at-least a problem facing the populace. Find solutions and select one that requires little or no external assistance (as capital intensive solution may discourage you). One important lesson I learnt is that, internet and google are wonderful tools, ideas on the internet can reduce your project cost by 50%.



The white collar job market is almost saturated but the field is still green in research, design and production. Its a lot easier to employ yourself and others than to be employed.

How can people connect with you

email: moonersfaith@yahoo.com
g+: moyebi81@gemail.com
watsapp/phone: 08034763779, 07088272729

Wednesday, September 9, 2015

FIIRO, TRAINING WORKSHOP SCHEDULE 2015

Last year, I took a techno entrepreneurship course at the Federal Institute of Industrial Research and it opened my eyes to a lot of things.

You would be surprised how many raw materials have been researched and are waiting to be commercialized.

My mushroom practical
The Federal Institute of Industrial Research, Oshodi (FIIRO) is a parastatal under the agency of the Federal Ministry of Science and Technology. FIIRO was the idea of an economic mission sent to Nigeria in 1953 by the World Bank. The mission's observation was that industrial research activities in Nigeria were diffused and uncoordinated with no definite direction. Consequently, a decision was reached to set the Institute in 1956.

Their mission is to conduct and promote market-driven research and development (R&D) for the industrialization and socio-economic development of the country.

The areas they focus on are;
  • Research and Development of Food and Agro – Allied Processing Technologies.
  • Research and Development into Pulp and Paper Processing.
  • Research and Development into Packaging and Product Design
  • Design and Fabrication of Equipment Prototype

My mushroom project
Ondo girls too like book, lol


Did you know that Ola Ola and Ayoola are products of FIIRO research? I was exposed to officials from NAFDAC, BOI, NASME, NEPC, TIC, SMEDAN amongst others. For a long time I had wondered about bottling palm wine for african themed hampers, alas they already researched this in FIIRO and some entrepreneurs through FIIRO are already exporting bottled palm wine.


Plus, did you know we have technology incubation centers at different locations across the federation?

There's really a lot of information out there that would save you a lot of trouble in starting a business. One thing I have learnt over the years is that information is power!

Actually FIIRO could use a lot of publicity, they've got a lot of good stuff. It was after my course there that I realized the disconnect between many of our formal institutions and these research institutions. They all need to work side by side. Don't you think?

So I saw their training schedule for this last quarter of 2015 and I thought to share. Someone might need this. Please share!

Cheers.

TRAINING WORKSHOP SCHEDULE 2015

1. Cassava Flour Production  - Sept 02-04, Oct 07-09, Nov 25-27, Dec 09-11 N30,000.00

2. Instant Pounded Yam Flour Production - Sept 14-18, Oct 05-09, Nov 16-20, Dec 14-18 N20,000.00

3. Bread and Confectionary Baking(including Soy Snacks) -  Sept 07-11, Oct 19-23, Nov 16-20, Dec 14-18 N20,000.00

4. Fufu Flour Production from Cassava - Sept 17-22, Oct 08-12, Nov 26- Dec 02 N20,000.00

5. Edible Mushroom Production - Sept 14-18, Oct 05-09, Nov 16-20 N20,000.00

6. Fruit Juice Production from Nigeria Fruits - Sept 07-11, Oct 05-09, Dec 14-18 N20,000.00

7. Zobo Drink Production and Preservation - Sept 19-22, Oct 14-16, Dec 09-11 N15,000.00

8. Palm Wine Bottling and Preservation - Oct 21-23, Nov 25-27 N15,000.00

9. Smoked Fish Production - Sept 09-11, Oct 21-23, Nov 25-27, Dec 16-18 N20,000.00

10. Cassava Starch Production - Sept 14-18, Oct 19-23, Dec 14-18 N15,000.00

11. Kunu Drink Production and Preservation - Sept 21-25, Nov 16-24 N20,000.00

12. Plantain Flour Production - Sept 28- Oct 02, Oct 12-16, Nov 16-20 N20,000.00

13. Electroplating and Plug Refurbishing - Oct 12-16, Nov 16-20 N20,000.00

14. Cassava Chips Production - Oct 28-30, Dec 16-18 N15,000.00

15. Laundry Soap Production - Sept 21-25, Oct 19-23, Nov 23-27, Dec 14-18 N15,000.00

16. Toilet Cleanser Production - Oct 19-23, Nov 23-27, Dec 14-18 N15,000.00

17. Computer Appreciation Training - Oct 12-24, Nov 16-30 N15,000.00


FOR WHOM

All those contemplating the establishment of cottage, small and medium scale Industries.

Agro-Industrial/Business Consultants.

Designers and Fabricators of Processing Equipment and Machinery.

Those in Baking, Hotels and Catering Businesses.

Operators of Cottage and Medium scale Agricultural Farms.

Those already in production with quality control problems.


METHOD OF APPLICATION

Applications are to be forwarded in person with cash or mail (courier) accompanied with bank draft addressed to:-

The Director-General
Federal Institute of Industrial Research, Oshodi, Off Agege Motor road, Via Cappa Bus Stop,
P.M.B 21023, Ikeja-Lagos State
Tel: 01-4531364, 08023414996, 08023164201
E-mail: info@fiiro.gov.ng
www.fiiro.gov.ng

For Enquiry on FIIRO Technology contact: enquiry@fiiro.gov.ng
Enquiry Time: Monday to Friday between 9:00am to 4:00pm daily.

Tuesday, September 8, 2015

MAX - Adetayo Bamiduro #inthespiritofenterprise


When someone leaves a juicy oil and gas job to go and "prepare" for entrepreneurship in MIT, you know this person ain't playing! Things are changing so fast in the entrepreneurship space in Nigeria. Young people are beginning to take risks and daring to follow their hearts. A few years ago, we had more people going to do MBAs in Ivy league schools just so they could get better jobs with fat salaries.

I met Tayo on one of my volunteer speaking engagements with the generation for societal change, run by some amazing young guys. He took time off work and flew in to Lagos just to be there. We were talking about fulfilling your potential to the final year students of mechanical engineering, Unilag. If you want to know someone who is headed somewhere, look at what they spend their time doing, what they commit to. I knew Tayo was going somewhere right from that time.

He shares his startup story with us in todays #inthespiritofenterprise

Enjoy.....

Tell us about yourself


My name is Adetayo Bamiduro. I acquired a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science in 2005 at the University of Ibadan. I began my entrepreneurial journey in my final year by building one of Nigeria's first mobile asset tracking and security platforms. 2 years later, I took a detour to explore the corporate world, so I worked for 3 multinationals in quick succession garnering experience in Manufacturing, Consulting and Energy. I then decided to return to my entrepreneurial calling so I chose to first prepare by pursuing a rigorous MBA program at MIT.

At MIT, I acquired skills and relationships that were relevant to my entrepreneurial vision for Africa.
Today, I see a window of opportunity to transform retail in Africa so I'm building a technology driven logistics service that will empower merchants, businesses and consumers to maximize online retail opportunities in Africa.


It is clear logistics is one of Africa's biggest challenges, and it happens to be one of the fields that has seen the least innovation. I'm determined to change this.

Tell us about your business

Business Name: MAX
Founded: 2015
About MAX:
MAX is a local Delivery Service designed for African cities.
MAX offer 3-HOUR, SAME-DAY and NEXT-DAY delivery services to its customers.
MAX leverages On-Demand Dispatch Technology and a high-performance network of Dispatch Riders to fulfill delivery requests at the click of a button.

MBA tins!! hahaha
MAX solves Africa’s most difficult last-mile fulfillment challenges by providing end-to-end pick-up and delivery, operating a point-to-point architecture, motivating Dispatch Riders with exciting career incentives and using state of the art mapping technology to manage navigation

What was your inspiration for starting this business?

There are over 9 million retailers in Nigeria, 99% of which are micro and small retailers. Many of them want to sell online, but they cannot deliver to consumers at the last-mile because they can’t afford a delivery fleet, and also because the major courier services are not interested in serving them.
The informal delivery industry in Nigeria is highly fragmented with hundreds of small players, most of which lack the technology and operations expertise that merchants and consumers need.
The large couriers operate asset heavy models that are expensive to scale. This explains why they cannot serve the huge community of micro and small retailers. This is the problem MAX solves, with its crowdsourced approach and a technology platform that enables it provide ultra-fast and secure local delivery.



How did you get funding for your business?

Family and Friends, Savings, Grants

What opportunities have you been able to leverage on in your business so far?

We've received awards, recognition and grants from the following organizations:

1. MIT Ideas Global Challenge
2. World Economic Forum
3. The MasterCard Foundation
4. The MIT Legatum Center
5. The MIT 100K Entrepreneurship Competition
6. Boston Campus Kudos Pitch Competition

What Challenges have you faced so far and how have you been able to overcome them?

Setting up and growing our customer base has been challenging but we are moving forward.
We've leveraged our extensive relationships in the local eCommerce ecosystem and this has been helpful.

It's also not been easy finding the right kind of talent for complex tasks.
We've done as much as we can by ourselves. We've also hired talented young people locally who are learning fast.

How will you summarize the journey so far?

It's been exciting.
Wouldn't exchange this experience for anything else.
You learn so much in a very short amount of time.
These are early days.
The future is exciting.

Given the Chance, will you do this again?

Absolutely!

What lessons have you been able to learn from your journey so far that others should know.

Conviction is critical.
Your team is critical.
Starting is more important than having a fancy business plan.
Talking to real customers is more important than downloading online reports.
Fund-raising is serious business.



How can people connect with you

www.max.ng
tayo@max.ng
https://www.facebook.com/trinitechnologies/
https://www.linkedin.com/pub/adetayo-bamiduro/8/964/108
08182971730