Two alumni and a current student from the Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA) shone brightly at The Growth Hub’s Business Accelerator and Grant competition held recently in Akure, the Ondo State capital.
The competition was sponsored by organizations such as Sterling Bank, Peppa, TradeFlow, Fez, Scrella, Spurt Group, and The SME Mall, along with various training partners.
Akindele David, a graduate from the Quantity Surveying Department, Class of ’17, emerged as the Second Prize winner, clinching a grant of N500,000. David, the founder of Rehoboth Agrifood Innovations, impressed the judges with his innovative agricultural firm that nurtures Black Soldier Flies.
These flies serve as a cost-effective substitute for livestock feed, reducing feeding costs by over 40%.
Ekanem Oluwatosin Joy, an alumna from the Fisheries and Wildlife Department, Class of 2011, was adjudged one of the 4th place runners-up, earning a grant of N125,000. Her venture, Highway Foods and Grains, specializes in agro-commodity exchange, supplying raw materials to companies and individuals in high volumes.
Ayoola Elizabeth Feranmi, a final-year student from the Agricultural Extension and Communication Technology Department, received an honorable mention for her creativity. Aside from securing a 4th place runner-up position with a cash prize of N125,000, Ayoola’s enterprise, Bessie Creative World, captivated the judges with its premium bead-crafted bags and accessories, designed to make individuals look regal and sophisticated. Her presentation not only impressed the judges but also garnered immediate patronage.
The Grand Finale event, held in collaboration with Sterling Bank and FUTA’s Centre for Entrepreneurship Development (CENT), highlighted the entrepreneurial spirit fostered within FUTA.
Olatunde Victor Adeoluwa, CEO of The Growth Hub, remarked, “These wins go a long way to show how FUTA drives entrepreneurial spirit in the students. We can’t wait to see many more amazing businesses emerge from FUTA.”
Professor Dunni Daramola, Director of CENT, reiterated FUTA’s commitment to enterprise development, emphasizing its importance for both the institution and the nation at large.