The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) has officially opened applications for the SMEDAN Pitch Competition – National MSME Conference Edition. According to the agency, the initiative offers a total of ₦20 million in grants to five outstanding entrepreneurs across the country.
“This year, we will be awarding a total of ₦20 million in grants to five outstanding entrepreneurs,” SMEDAN stated, describing the competition as “one unforgettable opportunity” for small business owners. The event aims to support innovation, resilience, and prosperity among Nigerian entrepreneurs, providing visibility and financial backing for promising ventures.
The agency explained that shortlisted participants will enjoy an all-expense-paid trip to Lagos State, where ten businesses will pitch live during the National MSME Conference. “This is your chance to pitch your business to a national audience that includes some of Nigeria’s most innovative minds,” SMEDAN said.
Eligibility is open to all Nigerian entrepreneurs, regardless of state of residence. Applicants are to visit smedan.gov.ng/msmeconference/ and complete the online form by submitting a one to two-minute video introducing their business, highlighting its products or services, and explaining how it reflects this year’s theme, “Building a Future of Innovation, Resilience, and Prosperity.”
Participants must also follow and tag @smedangov on social media and use the hashtags #SMEDANPitchCompetition, #SMEDANGov, #MSMEConference25, and #GROWNigerian. The deadline for submissions is October 28, 2025. SMEDAN emphasized that registration for the pitch competition is free.