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Enterprise for Youth in Agriculture (EYiA)

A flagship initiative of Soilless Farm Lab, powered by the Mastercard Foundation in partnership with SARA by Wema, is equipping young people especially women tech-enabled skills to thrive in agriculture and beyond.

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ABOUT SOILLESS FARM LAB/ EYiA

EYiA (Enterprise for Youth in Agriculture) is a flagship initiative of Soilless Farm Lab, powered by the Mastercard Foundation under the Young Africa Works Strategy.

It focuses on giving young people, particularly women, opportunities to work, learn, and earn through tech-enabled, sustainable agriculture and agribusiness training.

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Impact

11,000+ youths trained since 2023; target of 12,000 by 2025.

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Cohort Size

1,000 participants per quarter.

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Gender Allocation

Female (ages 18-35) & Male (ages 18-29).

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Focus

Transform agriculture from subsistence to enterprise while nurturing changemakers.

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Training Areas

Participants receive hands-on training in:

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Financial management, Leadership & Business Skills

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Market & Finance Access: Through strategic partnerships

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Sustainable Agribusiness

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Agribusiness & Entrepreneurship

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Food Processing & Marketing

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Food Safety & Good Agricultural Practices

ABOUT SARA

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SARA by Wema is a women-focused proposition designed to empower women through access to finance, access to market, health and wellness, business support, and community networks. More than a banking solution, SARA is an ecosystem of growth and empowerment enhanced through strategic collaborations that create lasting impact.

At the heart of SARA's success is the belief that partnerships amplify possibilities. Through initiatives like EYiA (Enterprise for Youth in Agriculture), SARA seeks to support women in agriculture with financial inclusion, access to markets, and affordable health solutions and grant opportunities, thereby helping them formalize businesses, gain credibility, and scale sustainably.

Similarly, collaborations with the Ministry of Women's Affairs (MOWA) have and continue to drive youth empowerment and vocational skills development for young women across Nigeria. Through partnership initiatives such as Transitioning to Tech with Africa Start-up Factory and Transforming Nigerian Youths with the Enterprise Development Centre and Mastercard Foundation, women have been equipped with digital skills, confidence, and the resources to thrive in today's economy.

SARA by Wema is proud to sponsor the SheCan Conference because we believe in the power of women-led innovation, inclusion, and empowerment—values that align perfectly with our mission to provide accessible digital banking, business tools, and financial education to women across Nigeria.

The Transforming Nigerian Youths program continues to shape women entrepreneurs by empowering them with business scalability skills. Both initiatives concluded with women participants winning grants to further support their growth and impact.

From agriculture to technology, health to finance, SARA's collaborations are transforming lives, breaking barriers, and unlocking women's potential nationwide.

FAQ

Everything you need to know about this program

How do I know my account has been successfully opened?

You will receive an SMS and email containing your account name and number once your account has been successfully created.

What documents do I need to open a Wema bank account?

Fill out your BVN and/or NIN details correctly on the Account opening platform alongside other personal details requested.

How long does it take to open an account?

Account opening is instant once your details are verified. You will get your account number immediately.

Can I operate my account without visiting the branch?

Yes. With the ALAT by Wema app, you can perform all transactions digitally.

How do I fund my new account?

You can fund your account by: :

Bank transfer from any Nigerian bank

Cash deposit at any Wema Bank branch/agent

Using USSD: *945#

What is SARA by Wema?

SARA is Wema Bank's women-focused proposition designed to provide financial solutions, empowerment, health, and business support for women across different life stages.

Who can join SARA?

All women - entrepreneurs, professionals, and students - can join SARA and enjoy its unique benefits.

What benefits do I get from being a SARA woman?

Access to discounted loans for women-owned businesses

Affordable health and wellness plans

Business and career training opportunities

Networking and mentorship programs

Access to markets for women MSMEs

The SARA Community

Grant opportunities etc.

What type of loans are available under SARA?

SARA offers discounted financing for women-owned businesses with flexible repayment terms.

Are there health plans under SARA?

Yes. Women under SARA get access to discounted medical insurance plans for themselves and their families.

How does SARA support business growth?

SARA provides: :

Training and capacity-building workshops

Access to a women's business community

Opportunities for partnership and collaboration

Market linkages for women entrepreneurs

How do I access SARA benefits?

Once your account is opened, you will be onboarded into the SARA community. You can access benefits via::

The ALAT app

SARA community events/webinars

Wema Bank branches

Is there a cost to join SARA?

No, you become a SARA woman when you have an account with Wema bank. However, specific products (like health insurance) may require a subscription fee.