Women-owned businesses in Lagos now have another opportunity to accelerate their growth as the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) has opened applications for the Grow Her Accelerator Programme Cohort 3.
The programme is specifically designed for women entrepreneurs who have already moved beyond the startup stage and are operating registered businesses with proven commercial activity. Rather than supporting business ideas, the initiative focuses on helping existing enterprises scale, improve their structures, and access new growth opportunities.
Successful participants will receive expert guidance, mentorship, business development support, and opportunities to connect with partners that can help expand their businesses.
Programme Summary
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | SMEDAN Grow Her Accelerator Programme Cohort 3 |
| Organiser | Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) |
| Target Applicants | Women entrepreneurs with registered and operational businesses |
| Location | Lagos, Nigeria |
| Business Stage | Existing businesses only (not startups) |
| Key Benefits | Business growth strategy, mentorship, financial readiness, market access, partnerships |
| Cost | Free for selected participants |
| Application Status | Applications Now Open |
Who Can Apply?
The programme is intended for women-led businesses that have already established a track record of operations and are ready for expansion.
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be a woman entrepreneur
- Operate a business located in Lagos State
- Have a business that has been registered for at least two years
- Possess a valid Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) registration
- Have a minimum annual turnover of ₦4 million, supported by evidence
- Hold any additional industry certification where applicable, which will serve as an added advantage
Businesses that are still at the idea stage or have not been formally registered are not eligible for this cohort.
Benefits of the Programme
Selected participants will gain access to a range of business development opportunities, including:
- Practical strategies for scaling and business expansion
- Financial readiness and improved business structuring
- Market access opportunities and partnership exposure
- Mentorship from experienced business professionals
- Peer learning and networking with other women entrepreneurs
- Support aimed at building sustainable and competitive businesses
What the Programme Focuses On
Many small businesses struggle not because they lack good products or services, but because they face challenges in areas such as financial management, market access, business systems, and strategic planning.
The Grow Her Accelerator Programme seeks to address these gaps by equipping participants with the knowledge and networks needed to compete more effectively and position their businesses for long-term growth.
For women entrepreneurs looking to move from survival to expansion, the programme offers an opportunity to strengthen both their business operations and leadership capacity.
How to Apply
Eligible applicants can submit their applications through the official application portal below:
Application Link: https://bit.ly/4xi64b7
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply as early as possible and ensure they meet all stated eligibility requirements before submitting their applications.
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