JCI Ibadan hosts sixth elite masterclass on business growth, funding

The Junior Chamber International (JCI) Ibadan Elite has successfully hosted the sixth edition of its flagship entrepreneurship programme, the Elite Business Masterclass (EBMC 6.0), aimed at equipping entrepreneurs with the knowledge and tools needed to access funding and scale their businesses.

The event, held on Friday, July 4, 2026, at the Ibadan Business School in Ibadan, Oyo State, was themed “The Growth Blueprint: Funding, Financing and Scaling for Businesses.” It attracted entrepreneurs, business owners and professionals from different sectors for a day of learning, networking and business development.

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Participants benefited from insightful presentations delivered by notable business leaders and professionals, including Dr Tayo Adesoji of Grace and Mercy Households Improvement Initiative, JCI Senator Goodness Morakinyo of Valencia Schools, JCI Senator Kemi Irinoye of KEA Group, and JC Israel Alabi.

The speakers addressed critical issues affecting business growth, including access to finance, investment readiness, grant opportunities and strategies for scaling enterprises. One of the highlights of the programme was a session by JC Israel Alabi titled “How to Win Your First Grant,” where participants were taken through practical steps for identifying and successfully applying for grants.

The masterclass also featured a panel discussion tagged: ‘The Growth Conversation,’ which provided an interactive platform for participants to engage experts on the realities and challenges of growing businesses in Nigeria’s current economic environment.

Among the panellists was JCIN Ambassador Dare Osunsanya, a seasoned grant recipient, who shared personal experiences and practical lessons on securing grants and leveraging funding opportunities for business expansion.

Speaking during the event, the 2026 President of JCI Ibadan Elite, JCIN Ambassador Ibukunoluwa Otesile, said the masterclass was conceived to bridge the gap between entrepreneurial potential and access to capital.

According to her, many businesses start with innovative ideas but struggle to move from survival to sustainability due to limited access to relevant knowledge, strategic networks and informed decision-making.

She stressed that programmes such as the Elite Business Masterclass provide entrepreneurs with the resources and connections needed to build resilient and impactful businesses.

The event was organised under JCI Ibadan Elite’s DREEP Agenda (Dynamic Resource for Entrepreneurship and Economic Progress) and received support from key institutional partners, including the Oyo State Ministry of Trade and Commerce and the Office of the Permanent Secretary.

JCI Ibadan Elite reiterated its commitment to promoting entrepreneurship, economic empowerment and business development across Oyo State, noting that preparations are already underway for the seventh edition of the Elite Business Masterclass.