Africa Innovation Foundry (AIF) has entered a strategic partnership with the Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN) to support Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across Nigeria through a blended programme focused on skills development, funding access, and business growth.
The collaboration introduces a structured pathway that combines digital learning, mentorship, business incubation, and grant opportunities designed to strengthen entrepreneurs’ credit readiness and scalability.
The initiative aims to empower MSMEs with practical business knowledge while connecting high-performing participants to funding opportunities and national exposure. Through DBN’s digital learning platform and AIF’s ecosystem support, participants will gain access to tools that improve enterprise sustainability and financial inclusion.
Entrepreneurs interested in joining the programme are required to follow the steps below:
- Registration
Sign up via the dedicated portal:
https://learning.devbankng.com/aif - Learning & Certification
Participants must enrol and complete at least four mandatory courses with a minimum average score of 80% across quizzes to qualify for the in-person workshops scheduled for June and November 2026 - Business Plan Development & Pitching
Eligible participants will prepare business plans, submit them to assigned consultants, and attend in-person workshops where they will pitch for grant opportunities.
Key Benefits
The programme provides participants with:
Opportunity to upskill and improve credit readiness
Access to ₦100 million in grant funding
₦50 million in cash prizes and incentives
Mentorship and incubation support
Inclusion in a growing community of innovative entrepreneurs
Exposure to investors, ecosystem players, and policy stakeholders
Driving MSME Growth and Financial Inclusion
The partnership reflects a shared commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s entrepreneurial ecosystem by equipping MSMEs with market-relevant knowledge, improving their access to finance, and positioning them for sustainable growth.
By integrating digital learning with incubation and funding pathways, the initiative is expected to support hundreds of entrepreneurs nationwide while fostering innovation-driven economic development.