John Kumah (middle) addressing the media
The National Entrepreneur and Innovation Programme (NEIP) under the Ministry of Business Development has announced the opening of its second window of applications for the Presidential Business Support Programme to provide well coordinated support to businesses.
Speaking at the launch of the second window on Thursday in Accra, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NEIP, John Kumah, called on prospective applicants to partake in the project that seeks to support small-scale businesses in terms of training, business advisory services, incubation, technical and financial aid for start-ups.
Mr. Kumah disclosed that the first window was highly welcomed by Ghanaians, as it received 7,000 applications from all 10 regions of the country.
He said there are 50 training programmes in incubation hubs across the country.
“All the 1,350 businesses selected received funding last year August and September and have even started repayment on the funds received,” he added.
According to him, the second window seeks to support 2,000 businesses with seed capital fund ranging from GH¢10,000 to GH¢100,000.
Mr. Kumah also advised applicants, who applied for the first window and were not successful to endeavour to apply for the second window since any Ghanaian with an innovative idea qualifies for the programme.
He was hopeful of receiving more applications from female innovators.
The CEO later explained the necessary procedure to successfully apply for NEIP’s second window.
All applicants are required to complete an online application form at the NEIP website (www.neip.gov.gh) and pay a non refundable fee of GH¢100 at any National Investment Bank (NIB).
Each applicant will receive a unique code after payment to complete the online registration process which should be submitted by the end of March, 2019.
Mr. Kumah later cautioned all prospective applicants to be wary of fraudsters who are working smartly to take advantage of people.
“Do not pay money to anyone. The entire application process is on our website and don’t accept any text message or email asking you to complete your application or fill any form,” he added.
By Melvin Tarlue & Brimah Mohammed