Established in August 2003 by Nigerian banker and philanthropist Jim Ovia, the Jim Ovia Foundation is dedicated to expanding opportunities for underserved Nigerian youth. Its work is built around education and information and communication technology, reflecting a focus on closing educational and digital gaps that can limit young people’s participation in the economy.

Scholarships are one of its principal tools, helping academically capable students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds access tertiary education. The foundation also runs ICT empowerment and entrepreneurship programs that provide young people with digital skills, business knowledge and mentorship. Through initiatives such as the Jim Ovia Scholarship, Jim Ovia ICT Entrepreneurs Program and Jim Ovia Foundation Leaders Scholarship, it has supported more than 1,500 students and entrepreneurs with over ₦1 billion in grants, while its broader programs aim to develop the skills and leadership capacity of Nigeria’s next generation.