Otti Promises Full Support to New Navy Boss in Abia

(SMEDAN. Photo by THISDAYLIVE)
SMEDAN is setting aside a N100 million fund to train and sponsor 100 business owner at its upcoming GROW Nigerian Conference.

This agency will help them on how to run a business and give them money to start.

The plan is meant to tackle the money and skills problems that hold back small businesses.

The programme will be part of the GROW Nigerian Conference 2026 in Lagos.

It will mix practical business classes with money support and help with access to markets for selected entrepreneurs.

In a statement on Thursday, SMEDAN said the highlight will be the Zero to 100 Pitch Competition.

It has a N100 million prize pool to back promising businesses.

Grants will be handed out at the Lagos conference and at another event in northern Nigeria.

The final and prize presentations are set for November 10.

SMEDAN Director General Charles Odii said the programme aims to close the gap between skills and funding.

He said many Nigerians have good ideas and real skills but lack the money and business knowledge to grow them.

He said money can help someone who has a skill but cannot afford tools.

For existing businesses, he said, knowing how to price goods, win customers and manage cash can decide whether new funds lead to growth.

Odii said the goal is to help entrepreneurs leave the conference with useful skills, financial support and useful contacts.

He hopes these businesses will be able to support their families and create jobs.

The conference will also link small businesses with investors, banks, regulators and buyers.

It will feature the Nigeria First Fair, a market where the public can buy directly from Nigerian businesses.

Odii urged Lagos residents to shop from local businesses during the festive season.

Separately, NAFDAC will hold a summit on November 9.

Regulators and business owners will discuss problems with product registration and show off the agency's NAPAMS platform.