“VersityEdge aims to expand to 104 universities by 2025” – Olusola Somuyiwa, Winner of Project Innovation to Market 1.6 Million Naira Start-Up Grant

Olusola Somuyiwa, a 500-level UIMSAite, secured a N1.6M grant in funding for his startup, VersityEdge, from UNILAG’s Project Innovation to Market (12M) in a Ceremony which took place at the Project’s office at the University of Lagos on Sunday, 15th November, 2024.

Olusola won the grant after successfully pitching his start-up at the end of a week-long incubation session in UNILAG. His start-up, VersityEdge, is an edtech start-up that uses AI to prepare and guide students on their admission journeys.  In recognition of this, the UIMSA Press’ Aisha Ibrahim had a brief chat with him concerning the goals of his start-up and the experience with the Project. 

Concerning the application process prior to the week-long session, he said, “The I2M application process was out in March where they called for individual with innovative ideas. I was shortlisted as one of the 130 in May from over 643 applications, and took some courses on their website for 6 weeks. After, they shortlisted 58. And we started a 6-week masterclass (online) where we were taught business model canvas, product development and branding, fundraising, legals, hiring and talent acquisition. These sessions were taught by expert in the field who had consulted for multinationals”. 

He further added that, “Beyond the learning, it [the opportunity] also fostered a vibrant community of innovators. I connected with amazing founders whose dedication and innovative spirit were truly inspiring. This experience was truly one of the highlights of the year, equipping us [VersityEdge] with the tools to scale our impact and inspire dreams across Nigeria”. 

On his start-up, VersityEdge, he said, “Since 2023, VersityEdge has gained recognition for its commitment to innovation and results. In July, we hosted a webinar for University of Ibadan aspirants, drawing over 600 participants and helping 150 students gain admission. This success has fueled our drive to improve and continuously make an even greater impact”. 

He concluded with a comment on the progress so far, “VersityEdge plans to expand to 104 universities by 2025, and it is my belief that the N1.6million can get the start-up into its first 10 universities and help 3,000 students secure admission and their dreams”. 

Aisha Ibrahim