Mary Ojulari Foundation has called for applications for Vanguard Fellowship Cohort 2, its entrepreneurship initiative to identify, equip, and elevate visionary innovators.
Following a successful inaugural cohort that supported 25 entrepreneurs with $125,000 in business growth funding, the foundation is inviting changemakers to join the community — a platform where ideas meet opportunity, mentorship, and measurable impact.
The second cohort continues the foundation’s mission to nurture purpose-driven entrepreneurs, who are building sustainable solutions to community and economic challenges. Through capacity building, business mentorship, and catalytic funding, it empowers participants to turn vision into viable enterprise.
Applications opened from September 24, and will run till October 26, with shortlisting on October 30 and interviews for November 1 and 2
Shortlisted applicants will participate in Ignite Bootcamp, a two-week immersive learning experience from 10–21 November 10, followed by Pitch Day on November 20.
During the Pitch Day, fellows will present their business ideas to a panel of investors and industry leaders for a chance to receive seed funding and mentorship.
Mrs Ojulari, founder, said the fellowship would bridge the gap between innovation and opportunity.
“There are so many ideas which fade, not because they lack potential, but because they lack access to capital, mentorship, and the right mindset,” she said.
“The Vanguard Fellowship exists to nurture those ideas and the exceptional individuals behind them. We’re building a community of bold thinkers who lead with purpose, create sustainable value, and inspire others to rise.”
She added that empowerment, at its core, must create a ripple effect — transforming individuals while strengthening the communities they serve.
“Our goal is to support founders who are intentional, disciplined, and ready to build solutions that make lives better. The impact must circulate — when one is lifted, others should rise too.”
Applications are open to aspiring and emerging entrepreneurs *across Nigeria* who are developing innovative, sustainable solutions to real challenges in their communities.
Each applicant may submit either a five-minute video or a 750-word written piece detailing their story, business idea, and vision for impact.
Submissions should be sent to [email protected]. Further details, including the application toolkit and updates, are available on the Foundation’s official social media pages.