For Shehu, running a multi-service digital and financial hub in Kebbi State has always been about more than business. From offering photocopy and design services to training students in cyber security, and AI, his center has become a knowledge lifeline for the community. But one obstacle kept threatening his hustle: unreliable power supply.
“Constant outages make it difficult to serve my customers and train students,” Shehu explains in his video entry sent to PalmPay. But that is about to change as he emerged as one of the first round winners of the PalmPay Hustle Grant Campaign, securing N500,000 to invest in solar inverters.
With steady power, Shehu will be able to expand his services, train more young people, and ensure his center keeps running, no matter the state of power in his community. He is joined by three other inspiring entrepreneurs whose journeys have the ripple effect of turning small hustles into big impact.
John Adekunle Akinloye, the CEO of Greentead Farms NG, is tackling post harvest losses by processing tomatoes into puree to extend their shelf life and reduce waste, and with his grant he plans to scale packaging and distribution to support local farmers.
In Lagos, fashion entrepreneur Abimbola Janet, who once carried fabrics in nylon bags across the city just to keep her dream alive, is now looking to use her grant to stock more fabrics, purchase equipment, and finally move into a proper shop.
Meanwhile in Jos, bespoke menswear designer Benjamin intends to set up a professional fashion studio, purchase mannequins, and invest in high resolution cameras to strengthen his digital presence and expand his brand.
Together, these four winners showcase how the Hustle Grant is more than just financial support; it is a catalyst for real change. As PalmPay celebrates its 6th anniversary, the Hustle Grant reflects the company’s mission to not only provide smarter financial tools but also power the ambition of these entrepreneurs and scaling the SMEs that drive Nigeria’s economy.
For these four beneficiaries, their stories reflects the diversity and determination of hustlers across the country. The various entries from the campaign show everyday people trying to build financial independence, one smart step at a time.
The second round winners of the PalmPay Hustle Grant would be announced on September 30, 2025, following the voting cycle, which runs until September 29.
