The Anambra State Government has inaugurated the implementation committee of the Cooperatives Startup Programme under the 1Youth, 2Skills Initiative Plus Phase 2.

The Cooperative Startup Programme is a new system designed to provide beneficiaries with direct support for shop acquisition, business establishment, structured operations, and continuous monitoring.

The inauguration, conducted by the Commissioner for Youth Development, Mr. Patrick Agha-Mba, marks a strategic progression toward equipping beneficiaries with tools and materials for full business stabilization by ensuring they access the financial support required to open shops, commence operations, and scale their enterprises sustainably.

The Commissioner announced that 730 cooperatives have been profiled, with a target of 700 cooperatives selected based on needs assessment.

Many beneficiaries have already begun submitting applications for the startup fund, demonstrating strong readiness to transition into the establishment phase of the programme.

He explained that the business financing structure under Phase 2 differs from the earlier equipment-financing stage.

This new phase, he said, requires all cooperatives to present a functional and credible business plan, ensuring clarity of purpose, financial direction, and long-term sustainability.

According to him, the requirement ensures that every supported enterprise has a foundation capable of real growth and stability.

To drive this system, the ministry unveiled a six-man implementation committee chaired by Ven. Emmanuel Onovo, with members including Chinaemerem Oguegbe, Chairman of the Nigeria Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (NASME), Anambra State, Rev. Godswill Ogbonnaya Mbah, and other professionals.

The committee will review applications, verify documents, conduct due diligence, and recommend qualified cooperatives for funding.