The Government of Cameroon, in partnership with the World Bank, has launched the second cycle of the Business Plan Competition under the Adaptive Safety Net and Economic Inclusion Project, offering renewed hope to young entrepreneurs in the North West Region and beyond.
The initiative was officially presented on Friday, January 16, 2026, during a technical workshop held at the MINEPAT Hall at Upstation, Bamenda. The workshop focused on presenting the project and establishing a regional jury committee to select beneficiaries for the competition.
Speaking at the event, Achuamang Muna Emmanuela, Manager of the Business Plan Competition, said the program specifically targets young Cameroonians aged between 18 and 35 who have already launched micro or small businesses with strong growth potential.
“The Business Plan Competition is not for ideas kept in drawers,” she stressed. “We are looking for real, existing businesses with clear business models, whether in the formal or informal sector, that can create jobs and contribute meaningfully to the economy.”
According to Muna Emmanuela, the North West Region is expected to benefit significantly, with 150 young entrepreneurs to be selected in Bamenda alone. Successful applicants will receive grants ranging from 5.5 million to 11 million CFA francs, depending on the nature and scale of their business activities.
She explained that the project has engaged a communication agency to organize sensitization caravans across Bamenda and other targeted regions, ensuring that no eligible youth is left uninformed. She revealed that online applications will open in March 2026, and applicants are required to submit a summary business plan (concept note) through the official digital platform.
“To guarantee transparency and traceability, all applications are evaluated online and anonymously by independent evaluators,” she said. “For those who face challenges with internet connectivity or navigating the platform, physical support centers have been established to assist them.”
From the second cycle, 1,500 concept notes will be shortlisted nationwide, after which verification teams will physically confirm the existence of the businesses. Verified entrepreneurs will then undergo a five-day training on business plan development, followed by a one-month window to submit a full business plan online.
She insisted that the final selection would be based on two components: an anonymous evaluation of the business plan and a five-minute pitch before the newly established regional jury. The pitch will account for 20 percent of the final score, with the remaining 80 percent coming from the business plan assessment.
Once selected, beneficiaries will receive grants in installments and be paired with business coaches for an 18-month support period, covering areas such as financial management, taxation, administration, and business growth strategies. Informal businesses will also be supported to transition into the formal sector.
Reflecting on the impact of the first cycle, Muna Emmanuela revealed that the program has already helped create more than 3,000 jobs nationwide, underscoring its potential to stimulate local economies.
The Governor of the North West Region, Adolphe Lele Lafrique, welcomed the initiative, describing it as a timely boost for the region’s youth. “I thank the government for this new year's gift to our youth,” the governor said. “These projects will certainly help reduce poverty and alleviate the suffering of our people. I urge those in charge to uphold transparency, professionalism, and good governance, and I call on beneficiaries to make good use of the funds entrusted to them.”
Also speaking at the event, Prof. Fru Angwafo, President of the North West Regional Assembly, noted that the project aligns with the Head of State’s commitment to youth employment and entrepreneurship.
“This improved Safety Net program goes beyond social assistance,” he said. “It creates startups, promotes competition based on merit, and offers real opportunities for young people to transform the local economy.”
Tamfu Simon Fai, North West Public Independent Conciliator.For Tamfu Simon Fai, North West Public Independent Conciliator, the project represents a strategic investment in the future of the region. “When you empower the youth, you secure the future of the country,” he said. “This initiative will help young people establish themselves, stay out of trouble, and contribute positively to society. Our office will continue to ensure transparency and prevent embezzlement.”
The Business Plan Competition will be implemented in the Far North, North West, South West, Centre, and Littoral Regions, exclusively for Cameroonian nationals. As applications prepare to open, authorities are urging all eligible young entrepreneurs with existing businesses to seize the opportunity and become part of a program designed to drive inclusive growth and sustainable development.
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