On Workers’ Day yesterday, we celebrated the incredible impact of women entrepreneurs who are driving the economy at the MSME Stakeholders Engagement Series hosted by Engr. Jennifer Adighije in Lagos. This remarkable event brought together key players from the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector, with a shared vision of promoting innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable growth.
A major highlight of the day was the inaugural edition of the #SMEDANSpeedPitch Competition, which saw a diverse group of dynamic business owners showcase their ventures to a panel of expert judges. It was truly exciting to witness the creativity and dedication of participants as they presented their businesses’ unique attributes and ambitious growth plans.
The competition featured a wide array of industries, demonstrating the diversity and potential of Nigeria’s MSME sector. I want to extend heartfelt congratulations to all the finalists, including Shea Tribe, Eco Haven, Jumish ICT Services, Eccentric, and Ayosifam Integrated Service. These innovative businesses, along with several others who took part in the competition, truly exemplify the spirit of entrepreneurship and the drive for success. Their determination and ingenuity were evident, and each participant left a lasting impression on the judges and audience alike.
Powered by 7-Fifteen Capital Limited, the #SMEDANSpeedPitch Competition not only provided a platform for entrepreneurs to gain exposure but also offered valuable rewards. Grants were awarded to top participants, helping to boost their business efforts. Additionally, entrepreneurs benefited from insightful lessons on storytelling, marketing, and sound business management—critical elements for sustaining long-term success.
Looking ahead, we are excited about our plans to host more events like this across the country. Our goal is to continue promoting financial literacy, providing access to essential knowledge and mentorship, and offering finance and tools to help MSMEs thrive. As we move forward, we remain committed to fostering an environment where entrepreneurship can flourish and drive economic growth nationwide.
