FATE Foundation has trained 256,277 entrepreneurs in Nigeria over 26 years, cementing its role at the forefront of enterprise development in Africa's most populous country.
The non-profit has graduated 8,945 entrepreneurs from its flagship programs since 1999, while reaching out to a further 247,332 entrepreneurs through short courses, self-paced learning and digital tools. Its podcasts and online platforms have expanded its reach to more than 1.7 million people.
These numbers span Nigeria's 36 states, including the FCT, as well as Kenya, South Africa, the UK and the United States. Its alumni continue to create jobs, strengthen value chains and contribute significantly to Nigeria's MSME sector.
Executive Director of the Fate Foundation, Ayomide Akindoli-Igwe, said for 26 years, the Foundation has remained true to its mission of harnessing the entrepreneurial spirit of Nigerians to catalyze job creation and economic growth.
“As we mark this anniversary, we are celebrating our legacy and reaffirming the core mission that has defined our impact since the beginning,” he said.
“We are committed to deepening our support for entrepreneurs by expanding digital inclusion and broadening financial access for women and youth,” she said.
He said the non-profit will continue to equip Nigerian businesses to start, grow and scale sustainably in both the local and global markets.
He commended the Board, partners, volunteers and entrepreneurs for their unwavering partnership who graduated through the programmes.
“And thank you to our team at FATE, past and present. This celebration, and all of our accomplishments, would not be possible without your passion and tireless dedication.”
Over the years, FATE Foundation has undertaken several initiatives that have become the cornerstone of Nigeria's entrepreneurial ecosystem.
“At The Fate School, we see the power of entrepreneurship every day – ideas turning into businesses, and businesses turning into livelihoods,” said Bambo Adebowale, dean and director of The Fate School.
“Through our programs, we don't just train entrepreneurs; we catalyze growth, equipping them with the tools, networks and confidence to create enterprises that create real economic value.”
According to him, the graduation of 8,945 graduates in 26 years reflects the reach of the Foundation, however, he said it still has an impact on sustainable businesses, retention of jobs and changes in markets.