In today’s fast-paced world, entrepreneurship is not just a slogan — it’s a powerful tool for solving social problems, reducing unemployment, and fostering economic growth. In Nigeria, where a vibrant youth population brims with creativity and ambition, access to structured business training can be a game-changer. This is where the GIZ ICSS Program comes in — a groundbreaking initiative that is empowering Nigeria’s next generation of entrepreneurs with the tools, knowledge, and support they need to build and scale impactful businesses.
Whether you’re a student, recent graduate, or budding entrepreneur, the GIZ ICSS Program offers a golden opportunity to unlock your full potential — and it all begins this July 27th, 2025.
What is the GIZ ICSS Program?
ICSS stands for Inspire, Create, Start, and Scale — a modular entrepreneurship development program designed and supported by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) in collaboration with various local partners across Nigeria. It is tailored to meet participants at every stage of the entrepreneurial journey:
- Inspire: Helps individuals discover their passion, assess their interests, and explore entrepreneurship as a viable path.
- Create: Guides aspiring entrepreneurs in turning ideas into business concepts using design thinking and innovation methods.
- Start: Offers training and support in launching a business with practical modules on finance, marketing, operations, and legal compliance.
- Scale: Designed for existing MSMEs looking to grow, streamline operations, and access funding opportunities.
Why the ICSS Program Matters in Nigeria
Nigeria’s youth population — over 60% under the age of 30 — represents an untapped economic force. Yet, challenges like unemployment, poor access to quality training, and limited business support systems hinder many from pursuing entrepreneurship. The GIZ ICSS Program addresses these gaps head-on by providing practical, hands-on business education and mentorship.
Here are just a few ways the program is making a real difference:
Practical Business Training
Unlike generic entrepreneurship workshops, the ICSS program is carefully structured to ensure participants walk away with real-world skills — from creating business models and validating ideas to understanding cash flow and scaling operations.
Blended Learning Approach
Participants enjoy a hybrid learning format — combining in-person sessions and virtual classes. This makes it flexible, accessible, and inclusive for learners across various regions. Our upcoming cohorts will run across July to October 2025, with strategic scheduling to avoid overlap and ensure optimal classroom engagement.
Focus on MSME Growth
The Scale module focuses specifically on helping existing businesses grow. This includes topics like process optimization, team management, accessing capital, and marketing strategies tailored to local and global markets.
Youth-Centered and Inclusive
Whether you’re a university student with a dream or a female-led startup in a rural community, the ICSS program is designed to welcome all. Special efforts are made to reach underrepresented groups including young women, people with disabilities, and marginalized communities.
What Makes Our 2025 Cohort Special?
Our ICSS program for 2025 is one of the most ambitious rollouts yet, taking place across several states with five full cohorts:
- 2 Cohorts for Create
- 2 Cohorts for Start
- 1 Cohort for Scale
Each cohort begins with a compulsory virtual orientation followed by a series of intensive in-person and virtual sessions. The program is designed not only to transfer knowledge but to spark collaboration and innovation among Nigeria’s future business leaders.
Don’t Miss Out – Join the Next Generation of Changemakers
If you’re serious about launching or growing your business, the GIZ ICSS Program is your next big step. Imagine walking away with a validated business model, a clear roadmap, and access to mentors and resources to make your dream a reality.
Start Date: July 27th, 2025
Orientation: Virtual
Participation: 80% discount (but competitive selection process)
Limited slots available. Click to register or learn more
📩 Have questions? Email us at dayohub@gmail.com or send a WhatsApp message to 08105636015 or +234 806 077 9290.
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