Meet the 5 finalists in Chivas ‘The Venture’ search

Chivas Regal announced 5 finalists from Nigeria in the Venture Search. The Search began in October 2015 to find and support businesses that create both financial value, but even more crucially, meet a defined social need.

The 2015 entries comprised enterprises that tackle a diverse range of social and environmental issues, from a recycling company which redesigns and re-uses empty cartons, to an off-grid power storage system that ensures timely evacuation of farm produce to trading points.

15 semi-finalists were invited to a 2-day boot camp, anchored by Co-Creation Hub, with young entrepreneurs mentored by inspiring industry leaders, prior to pitching to a panel of judges.

Moderated by Audu Maikori, renowned social entrepreneur and President of the Chocolate City Group, the 15 semifinalists were soon pruned to 5 finalists. The winner, expected to emerge next week, will represent Nigeria at the international phase of the competition, expected to feature applicants from 26 countries across 6 continents, battling for a share of the $1million global fund.

Only the most promising start-ups from each country will be selected as global finalist, and gain the chance to win a share of the $1m global fund. However, with the overall quality of entries so high, Femi Longe, Director of Programmes, Co-Creation Hub, confessed that “we are overwhelmed by the caliber of entries. These 5 business ideas represent the best and brightest in Nigeria’s blossoming Social Entrepreneurship future and present the panel of judges with a real challenge on selection of that one distinguished finalist. It will not be an easy selection”.

The Venture is Chivas Regal’s global search to find and support the most promising aspiring social entrepreneurs who want to succeed whilst making a positive impact on the lives of others. With over $1 million in funding and resources, The Venture will enable social entrepreneurs from around the world realise their potential and gain exposure for their business.

Launched in 1909, Chivas Regal is the world’s first luxury whisky and is considered to be a timeless classic, renowned for style, substance and exclusivity.

A truly global brand, Chivas Regal today sells 4.6 million 9L cases annually in more than 150 countries across the globe. Brotherhood, generosity, entrepreneurship and integrity are at the heart of Chivas Regal so in 2008, the brand launched its successful Live with Chivalry campaign, which has inspired Modern Gentlemen in more than 60 countries around the world to pursue success with integrity.

This is a feature by Chivas Regal.