In a bold move to stimulate economic growth and support struggling businesses, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Thursday, disbursed financial grants to 2,000 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The initiative, part of the MORE Business Upscale Programme (MORE BIZ-UP), aims to alleviate the harsh economic realities faced by businesses in the state.
The disbursement ceremony, held at the Events Centre in Asaba, was organized by the Delta State Job and Wealth Creation Bureau. Addressing the beneficiaries, Governor Oborevwori emphasized the program’s significance in line with his administration’s MORE Agenda.
“The MORE Business Upscale Programme is designed to provide financial stimulus to MSMEs to expand their businesses and cushion the effects of the nation’s economic hardship,” the Governor stated. “This initiative underscores our commitment to fostering small business growth and driving economic development in Delta State.”
He highlighted other programs under his administration, such as D-CARES, M.O.R.E Grant, and M.O.R.E WESAP, which collectively aim to create jobs and empower entrepreneurs.
Charging beneficiaries to apply their training from the M.O.R.E Business School, Governor Oborevwori said: “Your success as entrepreneurs is crucial to our state’s economic development. Out of over 10,000 applicants, you are among the 2,000 selected. I urge you to use this grant wisely and responsibly.”
The beneficiaries include 1,000 new applicants and 1,000 past beneficiaries verified by the Directorate of Youth Monitoring and Mentoring. New beneficiaries received grants of ₦200,000 each, while returning beneficiaries received ₦150,000.
Mr. Ifeanyi Egwuyenga, the State Chief Job and Wealth Creation Officer, expressed gratitude to the Governor for his visionary leadership. “This initiative demonstrates the Governor’s commitment to uplifting MSMEs, providing not just financial support but also critical business education through the M.O.R.E Business School,” he noted.
Egwuyenga also outlined the rigorous selection process, which included profiling businesses across the state’s 25 Local Government Areas and providing training on navigating economic challenges. “This program is open to all, irrespective of party affiliation or indigene status, as long as they contribute to the state’s economy,” he added.
Looking ahead, Egwuyenga revealed plans to expand the initiative next year, with more programs to support Delta’s entrepreneurs.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr. Meshack Okeoghene thanked Governor Oborevwori for the impactful gesture, calling it a catalyst for business growth. “This grant will undoubtedly stimulate our businesses and inspire others to strive for success,” he said.
The MORE Biz-Up program is yet another stride in the Governor’s efforts to build a resilient economy, one business at a time. As beneficiaries apply their newfound skills and resources, Delta State moves closer to achieving a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem.
