The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) has partnered with the Better Life Program for the African Rural Woman, chaired by Aisha Babangida, to empower 100 female entrepreneurs in Minna, Niger State.
Unlike entrepreneurs in urban areas who enjoy easier access to finance, mentorship, and business training, many women in rural communities face challenges in finding the right guidance and opportunities to grow their businesses. To address this gap, SMEDAN and the Better Life Program organized a three-day capacity building programme aimed at boosting financial management, business growth, and sustainable enterprise development.
Each of the 100 participants underwent intensive sessions covering key areas such as business management skills, financial literacy, and exploring growth opportunities tailored to the realities of local entrepreneurs. At the end of the training, every participant received a ₦100,000 business grant to support and expand their ventures.
One of the beneficiaries said, “I used to think grants were only for manufacturers and big businesses, but this training helped me understand that even I, as a ‘nano business’, a new word I learned here, can go to SMEDAN for information and support.”
Another participant added, “Before now, I believed you had to know someone in government to benefit from programmes like this. But this training changed that mindset. I was randomly selected and didn’t know anyone here. I’m grateful to SMEDAN and the Better Life Program for bringing this opportunity right to our doorstep.”
Through initiatives like this, SMEDAN continues to promote women empowerment, entrepreneurship development, and rural economic growth, ensuring that no entrepreneur, no matter how small, is left behind.