On Thursday, October 2, 2025 Orange Corners Nigeria (OCN) – an initiative of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, executed in partnership with FATE Foundation to build a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem in Nigeria, particularly among young people – hosted the OCN 12 Close-Out and OCIF Track II Award Ceremony in celebratio of the innovation, grit, and vision of Nigerian entrepreneurs shaping the nation’s economic future.
The event brought together founders, investors, and ecosystem leaders for a day dedicated to recognizing bold entrepreneurship and the transformative power of opportunity.
Six exceptional entrepreneurs were each awarded pre-seed funding worth €80,000, marking a significant milestone in their entrepreneurial journeys. The awardees include:
📌 1st Position: @oleanderbelle, Founder @oleanderlife
📌 2nd Position: @moses1st, Founder @tentagrow1
📌 3rd Position: @dorcasobeahon, Founder @onitafrica
📌 4th Position: @officialtej, Founder @scrap2style
📌 5th Position: @olaoyetade, Founder @feedme_africa
📌 6th Position: @divinevibe1, Founder @verionx_
Each of these founders exemplifies the power of innovation and perseverance, demonstrating what is possible when talent meets the right support system.
The awards were presented by His Excellency, His Excellency Michel Deelen (Consul General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Lagos); Adenike Adeyemi (Executive Director, FATE Foundation; Dr Segun Ogunsanya (Chairman, Board of Directors, NSIA Prize for Innovation); and Ikechi Onyeneke (Head, Enterprise Business Development at StanbicIBTC).
Launched in 2019 in Lagos, Orange Corners Nigeria provides six months of intensive incubation, mentorship, business training, and access to funding through the Orange Corners Innovation Fund (OCIF). Its mission is to strengthen Nigeria’s entrepreneurial ecosystem by empowering youth aged 18–35 with the skills, networks, and opportunities to tackle local challenges through enterprise.
Over 220 startups across key sectors such as agriculture, technology, renewable energy, and circular economy have been supported, contributing to job creation and innovation across the country. With hubs now in Lagos and Ogun State, and partnerships with institutions like Stanbic IBTC and The Coca-Cola Foundation, OCN continues to expand its impact and reinforce the Netherlands’ commitment to fostering inclusive economic growth in Nigeria.
