NEIP Assures Transparency in Adwumawura, Launches Independent Grant Committee

The National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP) has announced plans to inaugurate an independent Grant Management Committee to assess business plans submitted under the Adwumawura Programme and make recommendations for funding.

“An independent Grant Management committee will be inaugurated soon to assess these business plans, and make recommendations for funding,” the Chief Executive Officer of NEIP, Mr. Eric Adjei Esq., made this announcement in a statement, responding to concerns raised by beneficiaries and the public about the implementation of the programme.

He explained that the move is part of efforts to ensure transparency and efficiency in the funding process under the Adwumawura Programme, which targets youth-owned businesses across the country.

Mr. Eric Adjei Esq., clarified that the Adwumawura Programme is not only about funding but a broader business development initiative aimed at building the capacity of youth-owned businesses across the country.

He stated that the programme is designed to support at least 10,000 youth-owned businesses every year through training, mentorship, and access to other business development services.

“First of all, The Adwumawura Programme isn’t solely about funding, we have been clear on this since the launch of the Programme,” he stated.

According to him, NEIP has already completed five weeks of intensive entrepreneurship training nationwide. He explained that the training forms a key part of the programme’s long-term goal to strengthen youth-led enterprises and prepare them for sustainable growth.

“We have successfully gone through 5 weeks of comprehensive intensive entrepreneurship training across the country,” Mr. Adjei said.

He added that beneficiaries who are interested in mentorship will continue to receive support beyond the training period.

“The training partners and innovation hubs are providing continuous mentorship to all beneficiaries interested in mentorship for six months,” the statement noted.

Mr. Adjei also disclosed that beneficiaries are being guided to improve their business proposals ahead of the funding stage.

“The training partners have been engaged to ensure all beneficiaries refine their business plans to be submitted to NEIP,” he said.

Touching on agriculture-related support, Mr. Adjei revealed that NEIP is working with the Ministry of Agriculture on the “Nkokonketee programme” to support poultry farmers. Under this arrangement, beneficiaries interested in poultry farming will receive birds and feed.

However, he said the programme is still waiting for complete data.

“We are yet to receive the complete list from all training partners and innovation hubs of Adwumawura beneficiaries interested in the ‘Nkokonketee’,” he stated.

Beyond funding and agriculture, NEIP will also help businesses with registration and certification. Mr. Adjei said the programme will support business registration at the Office of the Registrar of Companies and assist with licenses from institutions such as the Food and Drugs Authority and the Ghana Standards Authority.

Reaffirming NEIP’s commitment, he assured beneficiaries of continued support.

“Let me assure you all once again of our commitment, dedication and determination to supporting your businesses.

For now, please ensure your business plans have been duly submitted to your training partner, and ready yourself to pitch your idea before the Grant Disbursement committee” he said.

He urged beneficiaries to submit their business plans and prepare for pitching before the grant committee, adding, “See you at the next Adumawura programme business development activity.”