In a significant move to tackle the funding challenges faced by young business minds, Pastor Jerry Eze has launched a major financial empowerment scheme. The founder of Streams of Joy International and the New Season Prophetic Prayers and Declarations (NSPPD) movement unveiled a $300,000 grant programme specifically for young Nigerian entrepreneurs.
Grant Details and Target Sectors
The initiative, announced on January 18, 2026, is designed to support 100 young Nigerians across the country. Each successful applicant will receive a minimum of $3,000 as a non-refundable grant. Pastor Eze clarified that this is not a loan, eliminating repayment pressures and allowing beneficiaries to concentrate fully on building their ventures.
The funds are earmarked for entrepreneurs operating in or planning to enter key growth sectors identified as critical for Nigeria's economic future. These sectors are agriculture, technology, and manufacturing. The grant aims to either help scale existing small businesses or provide the seed capital needed to launch promising new ideas, moving youths from mere concepts to tangible execution.
Transparent Process Managed Independently
Addressing potential concerns about fairness and transparency, Pastor Jerry Eze emphasized that the programme will be administered by an independent organisation. This external body will be solely responsible for the selection of beneficiaries and the disbursement of the funds.
This separation between the foundation and the operational process is intended to ensure credibility, integrity, and professionalism. It sets a clear standard for how such youth empowerment programmes should be run, building trust among applicants and the public.
Holistic Empowerment and Future Plans
Pastor Eze stated that this grant reflects the broader vision of the Jerry Eze Foundation, which focuses on holistic empowerment. The foundation aims to cater to both the spiritual and practical needs of individuals, fostering innovation, productivity, and sustainable impact.
He described this $300,000 announcement as "an early insight into a larger plan," hinting at more comprehensive interventions to be rolled out in the coming months. The initiative represents a faith-inspired investment in Nigeria's future workforce, blending spiritual leadership with practical economic support.
Young Nigerians interested in the grant are advised to stay attentive for the official release of application guidelines, eligibility criteria, and timelines, which are expected to be published soon. This programme adds to existing efforts like the Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme, expanding the ecosystem of support for African entrepreneurs.
