Five women entrepreneurs have been shortlisted for the final stage of the ?20 million Unicorn Project, an initiative by communications agency SoMe Solutions in collaboration with Premier Business Network (PBN).
The competition, launched earlier this year, is aimed at supporting women-led businesses in Nigeria with funding, mentorship, and visibility opportunities. From more than 120 applications received nationwide, the selected finalists represent a range of sectors, including food, fashion, wellness, and agriculture.
The five entrepreneurs are:
Nancy Amaku – Chef Nahnah Foods and Confectionaries Ltd; Aderoju Dasola Elizabeth – Eliz-Bags and Accessories;
Opeyemi Adebisi – Pemnia Wellness;
Kieva Chris-Amusan – Fertitude;
Abejide Oluwatosin Mercy – House of Rheevo Limited
According to the organisers, the finalists were chosen following interviews and assessments of an initial shortlist of 20 entrepreneurs. Those who made the Top 20 have also been admitted into the Unicorn Community, which provides ongoing mentorship, networking, and business support.
Elizabeth Osho, founder of SoMe Solutions, said the project seeks to highlight the resilience and creativity of women in business. ‘It isn’t just about money, it’s about turning potential into lasting impact,’ she noted.
The judging panel includes industry figures such as Peter Gbologe (PBN), Morenike Molehin (Oak and Teak), Ifedayo Durosinmi-Etti (Herconomy), Ayisat Agbaje-Okunade (Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy), Emem Ime Okwoche (EMEM Fashion), and Adebolu Ezipke (SoMe Solutions).
In the coming weeks, the finalists will take part in a public engagement phase, where their stories will be shared online for feedback and voting. The results will contribute to the judges’ final decision.
The winner, to be announced later this year, will receive ?500,000 in cash and a ?20 million brand and PR support package.
The project is supported by several sponsors, including Complete Sports Nigeria, PoshClick, JustBrandIt, GetUp Inc., and Brand Communicator.