FirstBank awards ₦10M to women entrepreneurs via Spark A Gem Challenge, winner gets ₦5M
FirstBank's Spark A Gem Challenge awarded ₦10 million in grants to women entrepreneurs, with Onyinye Obayi of Honeypot Confections taking the ₦5 million top prize. The maiden edition attracted 356 applicants from sectors like agriculture, education, and healthcare, narrowing to eight finalists who underwent four days of training before pitching to judges.
The first and second runners-up received ₦3 million and ₦2 million respectively. Beyond the cash, all applicants gained entry to FirstBank's FirstGem ecosystem, creating pathways for future banking relationships, credit, and advisory support. As Group Executive Chuma Ezirim noted, the program pairs finance with financial literacy, mentorship, and networks—recognizing that capital alone isn't enough for sustainable women-led business growth.
This initiative reflects FirstBank's strategy to position itself as a long-term partner for women entrepreneurs, moving beyond transactional banking to foster innovation and inclusive growth. For women business owners seeking more than just loans, it signals where to find comprehensive support combining funding with essential business capabilities.
Will you explore FirstGem's offerings if you're looking to scale your women-owned business with both capital and capacity-building resources?