GROWHer Accelerator Programme: Empowering Nigerian Women Entrepreneurs to Scale and Succeed

GROWHer Accelerator Programme: Empowering Nigerian Women Entrepreneurs to Scale and Succeed
Women entrepreneurs in Nigeria are breaking barriers, building businesses, and shaping industries. However, scaling a business, accessing funding, and entering new markets remain significant challenges. To address these obstacles, SMEDAN (Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria) has introduced the GROWHer Accelerator Programme—an initiative designed to empower and equip women-led businesses with the resources they need to thrive.
If you are a bold, ambitious, and growth-driven woman entrepreneur looking for mentorship, funding, and market access, this programme is for you. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the GROWHer Accelerator Programme, its benefits, eligibility criteria, and how you can apply.
What is the GROWHer Accelerator Programme?
The GROWHer Accelerator Programme is a high-impact initiative aimed at supporting women entrepreneurs in Nigeria who are ready to scale their businesses. It provides participants with expert mentorship, strategic training, networking opportunities, and access to funding to help them expand into new markets.
Organized by SMEDAN, this programme is tailored to empower women-led businesses that are operational, financially active, and positioned for growth. If your business is ready to move to the next level, GROWHer offers you the resources and support needed to accelerate your success.
Why Should You Join GROWHer?
Running a business as a woman in Nigeria comes with unique challenges, from limited access to capital to gender biases in business environments. The GROWHer Accelerator Programme is designed to bridge these gaps and equip women with the tools they need to succeed in a competitive business landscape.
Key Benefits of GROWHer
Expert Mentorship – Learn from successful entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and seasoned professionals who will guide you through the growth phase of your business.
Business Training:
Strengthen your business skills through high-impact workshops and practical training sessions.
Strategic Networking:
Gain access to a network of investors, potential partners, and like-minded women entrepreneurs who can help drive your business forward.
Funding Opportunities:
Secure the capital you need to scale your business. GROWHer provides access to potential investors and funding sources.
Market Expansion:
Increase your business visibility and credibility, unlocking new customer opportunities and expanding into new markets.
This accelerator is not just about business growth—it’s about creating long-term success and sustainability for women entrepreneurs across Nigeria.
Who is Eligible to Apply?
The GROWHer Accelerator Programme is open to women entrepreneurs in Nigeria who meet the following criteria:

Market-Ready

Your business should have a product or service that is ready for scaling and expansion into larger markets.
Women-Led:
The business must be founded or co-founded by a woman aged between 18 and 50 years old.
Established & Operational:
Your business should have been in operation for at least three years and demonstrate consistent growth.
Financially Active:
You must have an active business bank account, ensuring financial transparency and accountability.
Nigeria-Based:
The business must be registered and operating in Nigeria, with all necessary legal documentation in place.
If your business aligns with these criteria, you qualify to apply and take advantage of this unique growth opportunity.
What Will You Gain from the Programme?
1. Personalized Business Mentorship
One of the key aspects of the GROWHer Accelerator Programme is its mentorship structure. Participants will be paired with experienced business leaders and entrepreneurs who will provide guidance, advice, and practical strategies for growth.
2. Advanced Business Training
The programme offers hands-on workshops and interactive training sessions covering essential topics such as:

Business scaling strategies
Financial management and investment readiness
Marketing and branding for expansion
Leadership development for women entrepreneurs

3. Exclusive Networking Opportunities
Participants will connect with:

Investors and venture capitalists looking for promising businesses
Government agencies and policymakers supporting SMEs
Successful entrepreneurs and industry leaders who can offer valuable insights and partnerships

4. Access to Funding
One of the biggest challenges for women entrepreneurs is securing funding. Through GROWHer, participants will be introduced to potential investors, grants, and financial institutions that provide capital for growth.
5. Increased Business Visibility
By participating in the accelerator, your business will gain national recognition and credibility, making it easier to attract customers, investors, and strategic partnerships.
How to Apply for GROWHer
If you’re interested in applying for the GROWHer Accelerator Programme, follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before applying, ensure your business meets the eligibility requirements listed above.
Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents
You will need to submit the following documents with your application:

CAC Certificate (Proof of Business Registration)
Proof of Business Ownership (e.g., Share Certificate, Memorandum of Association)
Valid Government-Issued ID (Passport, Driver’s License, or National ID)
Business Bank Statement (Last 6 months)
Product/Service Brochure or Catalogue
Brief Business Plan (Max. 2 pages) outlining your business vision, growth plans, and financial projections.

Step 3: Submit Your Application
Send all required documents via email to: [email protected]
Step 4: Wait for Confirmation
Once you submit your application, you will receive an email confirming that your application has been successfully received. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next stage of the selection process.
Application Deadline
The deadline for submitting applications is:
📅 April 4, 2025
Make sure to apply before this date to secure your chance of being part of this exclusive programme.
For more details, visit: https://smedan.gov.ng/our-programs/growher/
Why You Should Apply Today
The GROWHer Accelerator Programme is more than just an opportunity—it’s a game-changer for women entrepreneurs looking to scale their businesses. Whether you need mentorship, funding, market access, or strategic networking, this programme has everything you need to take your business to the next level.
With Nigeria’s growing economy and increasing support for women in bu
siness, now is the perfect time to seize this opportunity and build a thriving enterprise.
Don’t miss out—apply today and take your business to greater heights!