csrreporters 
Young entrepreneurs, artisans, and small business owners in Cross River State now have fresh opportunities to grow, as the Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Senator John Enoh, unveiled a ₦500 million intervention fund to boost local businesses.
Speaking in Calabar on Friday, Enoh explained that the program is a personal initiative—separate from federal or state government schemes—designed to directly support more than 1,000 beneficiaries in its first phase.
“This intervention is a grant, not a loan,” the Minister emphasized. “It’s about empowering our people, creating jobs, and helping artisans and young business owners build sustainable livelihoods. It is not for politics or quick spending like rent it’s for growth.”
The scheme will cater to both formal and informal sectors. Registered businesses can apply online through hmindustry.ng
, while artisans such as welders, food vendors, tailors, and mechanics can access paper application forms distributed across the 18 local government areas of the state.
Beneficiaries will receive between ₦100,000 and ₦500,000 each after undergoing a one-week entrepreneurship training organized across the three senatorial districts.
Activist and journalist, Agba Jalingo, speaking for the implementation committee, assured that the fund would be handled transparently. “Not a dime will be stolen. Every kobo will reach the people who need it most,” he said.
The intervention will run in four batches, with each batch accommodating 150 formal business operators and 325 artisans spread across the state.
Stakeholders, including the Calabar Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, pledged their support to ensure the program succeeds.
With this initiative, more young entrepreneurs and everyday hustlers in Cross River will have the chance to turn their ideas and skills into thriving ventures.
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