ProvidusUnity Bank has graduated over 100 entrepreneurs from the sixth cohort of its SME Development Programme, solidifying its dedication to fostering a thriving small business ecosystem that drives economic growth, innovation, and job creation across Nigeria. The programme, a partnership with the Enterprise Development Centre (EDC) of Pan-Atlantic University, equipped participants with practical skills in business strategy, financial management, and growth planning.
The three-month capacity-building programme brought together small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) owners from Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt. Participants received training in business strategy, financial management, operations, governance, and growth planning, enabling them to build resilient and sustainable enterprises. Ernest Elue, Head of Business Development at ProvidusUnity Bank, emphasized that the initiative addresses capacity gaps that often constrain SME growth and limit their contribution to national development.
Elue stated that the programme goes beyond training entrepreneurs, aiming to build an ecosystem where small businesses can access knowledge, networks, and support for long-term sustainability and growth. SMEs are the backbone of the Nigerian economy, and investing in their success is an investment in the country’s future. The programme has empowered hundreds of entrepreneurs across Nigeria, reflecting ProvidusUnity Bank’s commitment to fostering innovation, creating jobs, and advancing financial inclusion.
To enhance the programme's impact, ProvidusUnity Bank partnered with Mentor Intro Africa, a leading mentorship platform, to provide participants with access to experienced business leaders and industry professionals. This partnership offered tailored mentorship, practical guidance, and valuable insights to help entrepreneurs navigate business challenges and refine growth strategies. Participants described the programme as transformative, providing practical solutions to real business challenges and strengthening their capacity for growth.
Graduates of the programme, such as Ukponi Bahan, Founder of Danny Palm Oil, and Ebitoru Orwell-Brown, Founder of Angie’s Ice Cream and Pastries, praised the programme for providing valuable insights and strengthening their businesses' foundations. Tunde Onakoya, Managing Director of Autoclinic NG Solutions Ltd, noted that the programme enhanced the company’s operations and opened new avenues for collaboration. The programme has been instrumental in empowering entrepreneurs to build sustainable and competitive businesses.
The ProvidusUnity Bank SME Development Programme is a flagship entrepreneurship initiative delivered in partnership with the Enterprise Development Centre (EDC) of Pan-Atlantic University. Since its inception, the initiative has empowered hundreds of entrepreneurs across Nigeria, reflecting ProvidusUnity Bank’s commitment to fostering innovation, creating jobs, advancing financial inclusion, and contributing to long-term economic development. The programme is a testament to the bank's dedication to supporting small businesses and driving economic growth in Nigeria.
Key points
- ProvidusUnity Bank has graduated over 100 entrepreneurs from the sixth cohort of its SME Development Programme.
- The programme was organized in partnership with the Enterprise Development Centre (EDC) of Pan-Atlantic University.
- The initiative has empowered hundreds of entrepreneurs across Nigeria, reflecting ProvidusUnity Bank’s commitment to fostering innovation and economic development.
