International Breweries Plc (IB), a subsidiary of AB InBev, has unveiled plans for the Kickstart 2025 Awards Ceremony, following the successful completion of its intensive training programme for over 400 emerging entrepreneurs. This year’s initiative marks ten years of IB’s commitment to nurturing Nigeria’s next generation of business leaders.
The Awards Ceremony, themed “Sustain. Scale. Succeed: Building the Future of Nigerian Entrepreneurs,” will conclude this year’s Kickstart journey. A total of 476 candidates participated in an online training programme facilitated by the Enterprise Development Centre, acquiring key skills in areas such as customer service, marketing, sales, financial management, leadership, operations, and business planning. Notably, the programme promoted inclusivity by actively including People with Disabilities, highlighting Kickstart’s dedication to equal opportunities.
From the initial group, 124 standout participants progressed to the hybrid bootcamp, combining in-person and virtual sessions across Lagos, Ogun, Osun, Rivers, and Anambra states. The bootcamp enhanced participants’ knowledge in business model innovation, digital marketing, sustainability practices, financial management, and pitch preparation. The programme culminated in PitchFest, where entrepreneurs presented their business ideas to a panel of experienced judges, showcasing creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurial potential.
The Kickstart 2025 Awards Ceremony, set for 17 November 2025, will recognize the most exceptional entrepreneurs and innovators, awarding them business funding to launch or scale their ventures and translate training into tangible growth.
Carlos Coutiño, Managing Director of International Breweries Plc, emphasized the potential of youth entrepreneurship to transform Nigeria’s economy. “Kickstart demonstrates that young people are pivotal to inclusive economic growth. Our 10th-anniversary ceremony celebrates not only the winners but also resilience, creativity, and the entrepreneurial spirit. By supporting our youth, we are investing in a future where they can sustain their ambitions, expand their impact, and achieve lasting success,” he said.
Dr Peter Bamkole, Chairman of the Advisory Board of International Breweries Foundation, described the programme’s theme as a reflection of its enduring vision. “Kickstart has shown that when opportunities are scaled and entrepreneurs empowered, we build more than businesses we build the future of our nation. This year’s bootcamp reaffirmed that Nigeria’s economic transformation depends on young innovators who lead with responsibility and creativity,” he said.
Temitope Oguntokun, Corporate Affairs and Regulatory Director at IB, highlighted Kickstart’s long-term support system. “Our approach goes beyond training or funding. Through mentorship and the Alumni Network, participants continue to access guidance, business resources, and peer learning, enabling them to not only survive but grow, scale, and succeed,” Oguntokun explained.
Former Vice President Professor Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, is expected to deliver the keynote address. Over the last decade, Kickstart has trained over 3,000 entrepreneurs, provided N800 million in grants to 470 small business owners, and generated nearly 1,000 jobs across 30 states. Supporting sectors such as agriculture, retail, circular packaging, technology, and renewable energy, the programme has achieved an 80% survival rate among supported businesses, underscoring its focus on sustainable growth and measurable impact.
**back biome official**
Mitolyn is a carefully developed, plant-based formula created to help support metabolic efficiency and encourage healthy, lasting weight management.