STL Trustees, a prominent trust company in Nigeria, has demonstrated its commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs through the launch of its innovative STL FundHer initiative. This initiative, timed to coincide with International Women’s Day, provided thirty women-led businesses with grants totaling N3 million, reflecting STL Trustees’ belief in the transformative power of supporting women in business. The core objective of STL FundHer is to provide a much-needed financial boost to these businesses, enabling them to expand their operations, reach new markets, and ultimately contribute to the broader economic growth of Nigeria. The grant amount of N100,000 awarded to each recipient represents a significant investment in their individual enterprises and underscores STL Trustees’ dedication to fostering a more inclusive and equitable business environment.
The selection process for the STL FundHer grant recipients was rigorous and competitive, given the overwhelming response from women entrepreneurs across Nigeria. STL Trustees prioritized businesses that demonstrated clear impact and potential for future growth. The selection criteria focused not solely on the size of the business, but rather on the resilience, innovation, and strategic thinking displayed by the applicants. The company sought out women who had not only achieved success in their respective fields but also exhibited a clear vision for the future of their businesses. This approach ensured that the grants reached entrepreneurs who possess the drive and acumen to maximize the impact of the funding and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
The award ceremony for the inaugural STL FundHer initiative provided a platform to celebrate the accomplishments of these remarkable women entrepreneurs. Adesola Aje, Head of Trust Services at STL Trustees, highlighted the importance of the initiative in bolstering the growth and development of women-led businesses. She emphasized that the N100,000 grant for each recipient was designed to have a tangible and meaningful impact on their enterprises. Aje also acknowledged the rigorous selection process and reiterated STL Trustees’ commitment to expanding the program in future editions to reach a greater number of deserving women entrepreneurs. This commitment signals the company’s long-term vision for empowering women in business and fostering sustainable economic growth.
Funmi Ekundayo, Managing Director and CEO of STL Trustees, echoed this sentiment in her address to the beneficiaries. She commended their perseverance and dedication in the face of economic challenges, recognizing their pivotal role in building businesses, creating opportunities, and strengthening communities. Ekundayo’s message underscored STL Trustees’ belief in the power of women as drivers of economic progress and emphasized the company’s commitment to supporting their entrepreneurial endeavors. She encouraged the recipients to leverage the networking opportunities provided by the event and learn from one another’s experiences, fostering a sense of community and collaboration among these women entrepreneurs.
The STL FundHer initiative is not just about providing financial assistance; it is about building a supportive ecosystem for women in business. Ekundayo emphasized the importance of networking, learning, and mutual support among the grant recipients, encouraging them to leverage the event as a platform for growth and collaboration. By connecting with like-minded individuals, sharing experiences, and learning best practices, these women entrepreneurs can further enhance their business acumen and create a stronger network of support. This holistic approach to empowerment reflects STL Trustees’ commitment to not only providing financial support but also fostering a community where women entrepreneurs can thrive.
Rebecca Aremu, founder of Becblaq Atelier and one of the grant recipients, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity provided by STL FundHer. She highlighted the significance of the grant in fueling her business growth and emphasized the value of the insights gained during the event. This sentiment reflects the impact of STL FundHer in providing both financial resources and valuable learning opportunities for women entrepreneurs. The initiative’s alignment with STL Trustees’ broader corporate social responsibility strategy further underscores the company’s commitment to empowering women, promoting financial inclusion, and fostering sustainable business practices. The STL FundHer initiative is poised to become a recurring program, expanding its reach and impact on the lives of women entrepreneurs across Nigeria, contributing to a more vibrant and inclusive economic landscape.
