Godman Akinlabi Launches N50m Enterprise Devt Fund

Godman Akinlabi, author, leadership expert, international speaker, and renowned global lead pastor of The Elevation Church, has officially launched the GodmanAkinlabi Enterprise Development Fund to mark his 50th birthday anniversary celebration. 

The grant, a statement said, is dedicated to financially empowering faith-based entrepreneurs, driving innovation, and championing sustainable business practices, all with the goal of creating a lasting societal impact.

With an initial endowment of N50 million personally funded by Akinlabi, the inaugural initiative will provide grants to deserving businesses, laying the foundation for transformative impact.

“Designed to remain entirely non-profit now and in the future, the Fund represents the start of an ambitious journey to evolve into an annual programme dedicated to supporting high-potential enterprises with sustainable impact. 

“Over time, it will welcome contributions from individuals, partners, and organisations united by a shared vision of building a more inclusive, prosperous, and impactful economy,” it said.

As part of the commemoration of his 50th birthday, Godman Akinlabi will host an exclusive leadership lecture at the Oriental Hotel, featuring keynote speaker and renowned thought leader, Leke Alder, it said.

This event will serve as a platform to explore transformative ideas on governance, leadership, and their critical roles in driving societal progress. 

With a focus on equipping attendees with actionable insights, the lecture underscores the values of visionary leadership, ethical governance, and strategic innovation essential for shaping a more sustainable and prosperous future.

A recent report by the International Trade Centre (ITC) highlighted a stark reality: the vast majority of Nigerian SMEs remain underfunded, with only 15 percent able to access formal credit. This financial gap, worsened by an economy strained by inadequate cash flow, stifles the growth and potential of small businesses. 

“The Godman Akinlabi Enterprise Development Fund aims to directly address these challenges by offering critical support, including access to capital, mentorship, and growth resources. The Fund envisions entrepreneurship as a transformative engine for driving innovation, generating employment, and fostering sustainable societal change,” it pointed out.

Akinlabi, the statement signed by the Global Head, Communications, The Elevation Church, Ayodun Akinfewa, has a passion for leadership development and national transformation.

“This Fund is the realisation of a long-held vision to raise leaders who will build profitable enterprises, transform industries, and inspire tangible change. I believe true leadership is not just about personal success but about creating platforms for others to thrive.

“ This Fund is that platform: a vehicle to empower courageous, faith-driven entrepreneurs to break barriers, innovate boldly, and redefine the future of business,” the statement quoted Akinlabi as saying.

The Godman Akinlabi Enterprise Development Fund offers targeted support for small and early-stage businesses, providing seed capital ranging from N250,000 to N2,000,000 for businesses looking to establish or scale. Enterprises with proven potential can access growth capital of up to N5,000,000, enabling them to expand their operations and deepen their impact.