Cascador Entrepreneurial and Leadership Initiative, a renowned program dedicated to empowering Nigerian entrepreneurs, has announced the opening of applications for its 2024 cohort.
Since its inception in 2019, Cascador has been instrumental in supporting local business growth by providing mentorship, education, and a strong support network to foster the next generation of business leaders in Nigeria.
The 2024 Cascador program is scheduled to be held from November 4-8, 2024, at Lagos Business School.
It offers African entrepreneurs a unique opportunity to grow their businesses and enhance their leadership skills through direct collaboration with successful American and Nigerian entrepreneurs.
Dave DeLucia, Co-Founder of Cascador, highlighted the impact of the program on local entrepreneurs, stating, “There’s so much good work to be done here in Lagos. Our participants benefit from being part of a local network that supports and nurtures their growth.”
Cascador’s program has attracted participants from across Nigeria, including major cities like Lagos, Kaduna, and Abuja, and has also welcomed applicants from other African nations such as Lesotho, Kenya, and Ghana. However, the initiative’s primary focus remains on Nigeria to build a strong and supportive entrepreneurial community within the country.
Program Details and Eligibility Criteria:
- Target Audience: The program targets mid-stage entrepreneurs who have been in operation for at least two years and generate annual sales revenue exceeding ₦50,000,000.
- Program Structure: Cascador’s approach includes a five-day intensive workshop followed by six months of mentorship. This structure aims to help entrepreneurs overcome significant business challenges in Nigeria.
- Personal Development Stipend: For the 2024 cohort, Cascador introduces a personal development stipend of $5,000 USD for each participant.
- Impact and Success: Cascador has been instrumental in the growth of several businesses, including a microfinance bank in Kaduna that tripled its client base from 4,000 to 15,000 women traders with Cascador’s guidance.
- Application Deadline: Applications for the 2024 cohort close on June 30, 2024.
Program Objectives:
Cascador aims to support mid-sized, high-potential growth companies that often lack adequate resources, filling a critical gap in the Nigerian business community. The initiative prioritizes businesses that create jobs, improve livelihoods, and contribute to Nigeria’s economic development.
Trish Thomas, Cascador Faculty, emphasized the initiative’s mission, stating, “Our goal is not to make money but to make an impact. We provide education and support, training entrepreneurs to raise money and connecting them to equity funding, debt financing, and grants.”
Community Impact and Economic Development:
The success stories of Cascador, including alumni collectively raising over $55M USD in capital, underscore the power of mentorship and community support in driving entrepreneurial success and contributing to Nigeria’s economic growth.
Dave DeLucia reiterated, “Our mission is to make a positive impact by helping entrepreneurs who want to make a difference in their communities.”
As Cascador continues to nurture Nigerian business leaders and contribute to economic growth, its impact resonates through the success of its participants and their contributions to the broader economy.
For more information on the Cascador Entrepreneurial and Leadership Initiative and to apply for the 2024 cohort, interested entrepreneurs can visit their official website.
Support InfoStride News' Credible Journalism: Only credible journalism can guarantee a fair, accountable and transparent society, including democracy and government. It involves a lot of efforts and money. We need your support. Click here to Donate