In a groundbreaking initiative to drive sustainable innovation across West Africa, TRANSFORM West Africa—an impact accelerator spearheaded by Unilever, the UK Government, and EY—has awarded a total of £500,000 in grant funding to five enterprises championing circular economy and regenerative agriculture solutions.
At a celebratory event hosted by the British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, the five grantees were officially announced, with three Nigerian startups earning spots on the coveted list. These enterprises will also receive business advisory support, mentorship, practical resources, and access to global networks through Unilever and EY to scale their innovations.
Meet the Nigerian Changemakers
The Nigerian startups recognized for their bold contributions to waste management and sustainability are:
- Chanja Datti – This startup is revolutionizing plastic waste processing by deploying Micro-Recycling Plants (MRPs) closer to waste collection points, decentralizing operations and increasing efficiency.
- Planet 3R – A social enterprise transforming plastic and textile waste into reusable products such as bags and boxes, while empowering women and youth with weaving skills and income-generating opportunities.
- Scrapays – A digital platform that connects waste producers, aggregators, and processors, making recycling more efficient through technology-driven networks.
A Collective Push Toward a Greener Future
Jonny Baxter, British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, applauded the winners for their visionary efforts.
“It’s very promising to see strong candidates tackling plastic waste in creative ways. We’re especially proud to support three Nigerian startups that show how digital solutions can solve environmental challenges and promote inclusive economic growth.”
Tobi Adeniyi, Unilever Nigeria’s Country Managing Director, emphasized the initiative’s locally led model:
“At TRANSFORM, we believe that the best solutions are built by those closest to the problems. Our local lens helped us identify truly innovative enterprises that are making a difference on the ground.”
In addition to the funding, EY professionals will provide tailored support, helping the startups navigate key growth milestones and refine their impact strategies.
Ashish Bakhshi, Head of Markets at EY West Africa, also remarked:
“We’re proud to collaborate on TRANSFORM and apply our skills to empower enterprises that are changing the narrative around sustainability. The ingenuity coming from this region is inspiring and essential for building a better future.”
Impact Beyond Borders
These startups now join an expanding ecosystem of TRANSFORM-backed innovators, including notable Nigerian enterprises like:
- WeCyclers – A rewards-for-recycling platform that encourages low-income communities to exchange recyclable waste for daily essentials.
- Reeddi Technologies – Providers of solar-powered battery generators, delivering clean and affordable electricity to off-grid households and small businesses.
Together, the 18 West African startups supported by TRANSFORM have impacted more than 2 million lives. Globally, the TRANSFORM community has touched over 18 million people in 20 countries, fostering inclusive innovation for a sustainable world.
This initiative marks a major stride in sustainable development, demonstrating how public-private partnerships can empower grassroots solutions that tackle global challenges like climate change, waste management, and economic inequality—starting right here in Nigeria.
