Beneficiaries of Isedowo empowerment initiative of Goldberg
lager beer have affirmed that the scheme has indeed provided them huge relief
from financial challenges hitherto faced in expanding their businesses.
So far, 32 artisans and small scale business operators have
been supported with N300,000 each by Isedowo in Osun and Ekiti States, while
the project continues in other Southwest States. In all, Goldberg will support
100 entrepreneurs through Isedowo across the Yoruba speaking states.
Ojo Adeosun, a fashion designer who was overjoyed after
receiving the grant, said the N300,000 was a huge upliftment from financial
challenges as it helped him in purchasing a new sewing machine he had always
required to expand his business. He disclosed that he also started selling
fabrics and now has three apprentices working with him.
Kayode Tope Ogunro, a photo/videographer, disclosed that he
had almost concluded arrangement to buy a camera and video lights from a friend
in Lagos and intended to open a studio with the grant from Isedowo. He said he
would also employ an assistant to further expand his business. Ogunro advised
other entrepreneurs to come up with good business ideas with positive impacts
on the society.
Ayodele Adebalogun, an aluminium fabricator, said Isedowo
provided a relief from the daunting struggle to raise capital. He disclosed
that he participated in the scheme with his wife, who is a caterer, but the
judges did not deem her proposal fit enough for selection. He added that after
buying a new cutting machine for his work, he supported his wife’s business
with parts of the grant.
Alo Babatope, an auto mechanic, and Ade Akinyemi, a welder,
both commended Goldberg, stating that the scheme was timely. Babatope, who
holds a certificate in automotive programme from the University of Ibadan, said
he bought a launch diagnostic machine used for all brand of cars with the
grant.
Akinyemi lauded Goldberg for creating wealth and job
opportunities in the Southwest. He added that the grant helped him in expanding
his business enterprise as he was able to purchase a welding machine he had
longed to have.
“Isedowo has taken that burden off me and I am now a happy
man. Goldberg deserves the name ‘Your Excellency’ because it has put smiles on
faces of people in distress,” Akinyemi affirmed.
Speaking on Isedowo, the Portfolio Manager, Mainstream Lager
and Stout brands, Nigerian Breweries Plc, Mr. Emmanuel Agu said Goldberg has,
through the empowerment initiative, extended its affinity with the people of
the Southwest beyond culture and tradition to entrepreneurship.
To benefit from the project, interested participants are
expected to showcase their business ideas and how they impact the society.
Isedowo, which was launched last month by the Ooni of Ife,
Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II, has received wide commendation from
prominent monarchs in the Southwest. Having supported entrepreneurs in Osun and
Ekiti States, the scheme will be activated in Oyo State next month.
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