The Ekiti State Government has urged business owners across the State to leverage on the third phase of the Ekiti Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus (EK-CARES) programme to grow their businesses and contribute to the State’s economic development.

The Technical Head of EK-CARES Result Area 3, Mr. Kehinde Otitoju, disclosed this in Ado Ekiti, stating that over 2,000 micro and small businesses across the state are set to benefit from the third phase of the programme.

Highlighting the programme’s potential to stimulate grassroots development, facilitate recovery and enhance the capabilities of business owners, Mr. Otitoju emphasized that the initiative reflects the commitment of Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s administration to support micro and small businesses as critical drivers of the State’s economy.

He urged business owners across the state to seize this opportunity by enrolling in the programme, explaining that it would provide financial support, technological tools to upscale businesses and entrepreneurial capacity training to ensure business sustainability.

Mr. Otitoju revealed that over 1,000 businesses benefitted from the first and the second phases of the programme and noted that another batch of disbursements would soon commence.

Assuring the public of the Governor’s commitment to his administration’s shared prosperity agenda by fostering a conducive business environment and supporting local enterprises, the Technical Head encouraged traders, artisans, agro-processors, cottage industries and entrepreneurs across various sectors to register for the programme.

According to Otitoju, applicants can register via https://forms.gle/kLsvSH5pGiicRtNR7 or visit MEDA office, located on the third floor of Mutual House, Fajuyi, Ado Ekiti.