YBI is a business focused organization reliant on support of business to give disadvantaged young entrepreneurs the chance to start their own business. This can release one of the greatest areas of potential growth in our economy. It unlocks entrepreneurial potential and ambitions of young people. It promotes entrepreneurial culture and boosts the growth of small business sector.

Commitment of business sector shows corporate social responsibility. Those business people who get involved in helping youth businesses, there are the rewards of seeing their experience and skills being used to generate real benefits that impact on the whole of their community.

1. Funding
Funding of about N15-20million is required for project finance and meeting administrative and general office expenses. Assuming assistance to 60 projects in the financial year at N200,000 per project, YBI needs N12million. YBI needs corporate sponsorship, grants from trusts, foundations, governments and other donors; lastly high net-worth individuals.

2. Office Equipment and furniture.
Local business people can help to reduce costs for young peoples’ businesses by passing on any unneeded equipment as gifts in kind. These can range from office furniture to computers and photo-copiers etc.

3. Communication network and Networking.
Internet access to enhance work of operational team with online access. Multilinks installation is N15,000 and access costs N10,000 per month i.e. N120,000per annum

Development and hosting of website

Assistance to two officers to attend YBI conference in China in October 2006

4. Publicity and Marketing
Improved publicity and regular media access to create awareness

5. Business Support
Free pro-bono advice from local professionals can make a significant contribution to young business entrepreneurs. Many young people need range of advice from lawyers, accountants, marketing experts etc.

Support the recruitment or secondment of key salaried staff such as manager, relationship officer and other volunteers.

6. Mentors
YBI needs business people, professionals to work as mentors alongside young clients to ensure their business has the best possible chance of surviving.

They act as coach, counselor, guide and friend.

They provide objective friendly expertise and counseling.

They motivate them and help them manage their expectations, problems and opportunities.

Companies should encourage their staff, retired officers and other professionals who want to offer community services to work with YBI.

Support also expected from Rotary, Lions Club etc.

7. Training
YBI needs to train its staff, clients and mentors. YBI welcomes short evening or weekend sessions, in house training provided free of charge by a corporation or consultant or professional; training materials, examples and templates.