Mary Ojulary Foundation Empowers Nigerian Entrepreneurs with $180,000
The Mary Ojulary Foundation has announced that it has disbursed $180,000 to young Nigerian entrepreneurs, aiming to strengthen small businesses and promote sustainable economic opportunities across the country.
Supporting Youth, Women, and Children
The announcement was made by Mary Ojulary, the Founder, during the award night for the second cohort of the Vanguard Fellowship Initiative in Lagos. The foundation focuses on two main programmes:
- Aspire Scholarship – Supporting children through primary, secondary, and tertiary education.
- Vanguard Fellowship Initiative – A flagship entrepreneurship empowerment scheme providing mentorship, coaching, and funding.
“I met a lot of 18 to 35-year-olds who were innovative and creative, with strong entrepreneurial ideas but lacked mentorship. That inspired me to create a platform focused on enterprise development, coaching, education, and mentorship.”-Ojulari
How the Vanguard Fellowship Works
The Vanguard Initiative includes the Ignite Bootcamp, an intensive training programme for aspiring entrepreneurs from across Nigeria. Participants are selected based on their innovative ideas and potential impact.
- First Cohort (April 2025): 25 entrepreneurs received a total of $125,000.
- Second Cohort (Current): 8 entrepreneurs were awarded N50 million (≈ $55,000).
The programme emphasizes that entrepreneurship is not just about money but about building skills, resilience, and networks.
How to Participate
Entrepreneurs who wish to benefit from the Vanguard Fellowship Initiative can:
- Visit the Mary Ojulary Foundation website to check for open calls.
- Apply with a clear business idea and plan.
- Participate in the Ignite Bootcamp if shortlisted.
- Complete mentorship sessions and receive funding based on performance and business potential.
Government Support and Future Opportunities
Gbolahan Yishawu, member of the Lagos House of Assembly, praised the foundation’s impact and pledged government support. Participants are also encouraged to prepare position papers that may influence future business and legislative initiatives.
Through the Vanguard Fellowship Initiative, the Mary Ojulary Foundation is nurturing entrepreneurial talent, providing mentorship, and creating sustainable opportunities, ensuring small businesses in Nigeria thrive. Aspiring entrepreneurs are encouraged to apply and turn their ideas into impactful ventures.
