The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) is set to host the GROW Nigerian Conference 2026 from November 8 to 10 at the Ecobank Pan African Centre (EPAC) in Lagos. The conference, themed “GROW Nigerian: The Next Frontier for Innovation, Policy and Market Access,” aims to connect Nigerian small businesses with the skills, finance, markets, and institutional support they need to grow. This annual gathering brings together entrepreneurs, policymakers, investors, and development partners.
SMEDAN's conference combines intensive masterclasses with enterprise funding, providing beneficiaries with the skills and capital to start businesses, improve operations, and expand. Masterclass sessions will conclude with financial grants to selected participants. Additionally, the Zero to 100 Pitch Competition offers extra funding opportunities for promising businesses. The pitch competition has a ₦100 million prize pool, with disbursements to be made at the conference and another event in northern Nigeria.
According to SMEDAN Director-General and Chief Executive Officer Charles Odii, the conference addresses practical challenges preventing entrepreneurial talent from translating into viable businesses. He stated that access to capital can change prospects for individuals with skills but lacking tools to begin. For existing businesses, knowing how to price properly, attract customers, and manage money determines whether capital produces growth.
The conference aims to create 100 new millionaire entrepreneurs through practical capacity building and financial grants. Odii emphasized that the ambition brings together the needs of entrepreneurs, providing useful skills, financial support, and connections to build businesses capable of sustaining livelihoods and employing others. The goal is to empower entrepreneurs to leave the conference with the necessary tools to succeed.
The GROW Nigerian Conference features the Nigeria First Fair, a marketplace open to the public throughout the three days. Visitors can shop directly from Nigerian small businesses, discover local brands, and meet the entrepreneurs behind their products. This platform allows small businesses to showcase their products and connect with potential customers.
SMEDAN's initiative seeks to shape policies that improve the business environment and provide support to small businesses. By offering skills, finance, and markets, the agency aims to contribute to the growth and development of Nigerian entrepreneurs. The conference provides a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs to network, learn, and access funding.
The ₦100 million fund is a significant investment in Nigeria's entrepreneurial ecosystem. With the GROW Nigerian Conference, SMEDAN demonstrates its commitment to empowering entrepreneurs and promoting economic growth. The conference is expected to have a positive impact on the lives of many entrepreneurs and the broader economy. Key initiatives like this fund are crucial for fostering innovation and job creation in Nigeria.
Key points
- SMEDAN launches ₦100m fund for entrepreneurs at GROW Nigerian Conference 2026
- Conference aims to create 100 new millionaire entrepreneurs through practical capacity building and financial grants
- Initiative seeks to shape policies that improve the business environment and provide support to small businesses
