The Chief Executive Officer of the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP), Eric Adjei, has addressed public concerns about the Adwumawura Programme, emphasizing that the initiative is not limited to the disbursement of funds but is designed to provide comprehensive support for youth-owned businesses.
In a statement posted on X, Adjei welcomed the concerns raised by beneficiaries and the public, describing them as valuable feedback that will help ensure the effective and efficient implementation of the programme.
He explained that since its launch, NEIP has consistently communicated that the Adwumawura Programme focuses on capacity building, with the goal of supporting at least 10,000 youth-owned businesses every year. As part of this objective, beneficiaries across the country have completed five weeks of intensive entrepreneurship training.
According to Adjei, training partners and innovation hubs are currently offering six months of continuous mentorship to beneficiaries who have opted for additional guidance. He added that these partners have also been tasked with assisting participants to refine their business plans for submission to NEIP.
An independent Grant Management Committee is expected to be inaugurated soon to assess the submitted business plans and make recommendations for grant funding, he said.
Adjei further disclosed that NEIP has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Ministry of Food and Agriculture to collaborate on the “Nkokonketee” poultry initiative.
Under the arrangement, beneficiaries interested in poultry farming will be supported with birds and feed. However, he noted that NEIP is yet to receive a complete list of interested beneficiaries from all training partners and innovation hubs.
Beyond funding and training, the NEIP CEO said the programme will also support early-stage and ideation businesses with formal registration at the Office of the Registrar of Companies.
In addition, beneficiaries will receive assistance in acquiring relevant certifications and licenses from institutions such as the Food and Drugs Authority, the Ghana Standards Authority, and the Ghana Export Promotion Centre.
Reaffirming NEIP’s commitment to youth entrepreneurship, Adjei assured beneficiaries of the programme’s dedication to supporting business growth and sustainability.
He urged participants to ensure their business plans have been submitted through their training partners and to prepare to pitch their ideas before the Grant Disbursement Committee ahead of upcoming Adwumawura Programme business development activities.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
