Young entrepreneurs to pitch for project funds in Kano

The Gathering on 100, a youth-focused platform promoting entrepreneurship, innovation and creative expression, is set to hold its Kano edition on July 11, bringing funding opportunities and a range of activities designed to empower young Nigerians.

The event, scheduled to take place at the Meena Event Centre, No. 6 Lodge Road, will run from 12:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., marking the initiative’s first outing in Northern Nigeria after successful editions in Lagos, Aba and Enugu.

Organisers said the programme combines entrepreneurship, music, gaming, fashion, networking and community engagement, creating a platform where young people can showcase their talents, develop business ideas and build valuable connections.

A major highlight of the event is the Pitchathon, which provides startup founders with an opportunity to compete for funding and business support.

At the inaugural edition in Lagos, eight startups secured a combined ₦45 million in funding, with Hubpharm Africa emerging as the overall winner and receiving ₦15 million to expand its operations. Similar funding opportunities were extended to entrepreneurs during subsequent editions in Aba and Enugu.

According to the organisers, the initiative is designed to move beyond entertainment by creating tangible opportunities for young Nigerians through business funding, mentorship and networking.

They noted that participants at previous editions have not only taken part in competitions and performances but have also secured investments, expanded their professional networks and transformed ideas into viable businesses.

Beyond entrepreneurship, the event features rap battles, dance competitions, gaming, fashion showcases and musical performances, reflecting the diverse interests of Nigerian youths while encouraging collaboration and creativity.

The organisers described Kano as a strategic destination for the initiative, citing the city’s longstanding reputation as Northern Nigeria’s commercial and cultural hub with a rich history of trade, enterprise and innovation.

They expressed optimism that the Kano edition would provide another platform for young entrepreneurs to access funding while giving participants opportunities to connect, collaborate and contribute to the growing movement.

The organisers added that each host city has shaped the event in its own unique way and expressed confidence that Kano would further strengthen the initiative’s mission of empowering young Nigerians through innovation, enterprise and community engagement.