Starting and growing a small or medium-scale business (SME) in Nigeria can be challenging, especially when it comes to securing financing. However, there are several funding options available to entrepreneurs and business owners. From government grants to private equity, each funding source provides different opportunities tailored to various business needs. In this blog post, we will list 20 top funding sources for SMEs in Nigeria, giving examples and outlining step-by-step solutions on how to access these funds.

1. Bank of Industry (BOI) SME Loan

The BOI provides long-term financing for SMEs across multiple sectors, including manufacturing and agro-processing. They offer affordable loans with flexible terms.

• Example: A clothing manufacturer in Lagos can apply for BOI's SME loan to purchase new equipment and expand operations.

2. Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) Entrepreneurship Program

This foundation offers grants, mentorship, and business training to African entrepreneurs. Every year, the program supports up to 1,000 entrepreneurs with $5,000 (approx. N3.75 million) in non-refundable seed capital.

• How to Access: Apply online by submitting your business idea during the open application period.

3. Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) SME Loan

CBN’s SME loan initiative provides financial support to small businesses through participating commercial banks. The interest rates are lower than standard commercial loans.

• Example: A small agro-processing business can access CBN loans via their local commercial bank for farm expansion.

4. YouWin Connect Nigeria

YouWin is a yearly program aimed at encouraging entrepreneurship by offering grants to businesses that show potential for growth and job creation.

• How to Access: Submit a detailed business plan and application when the program is open for submissions.

5. Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF)

This state-backed fund is designed to support small businesses in Lagos by offering affordable loans with low-interest rates to help businesses grow.

• Example: A local restaurant in Lagos can apply for this fund to expand their kitchen facilities.

6. African Development Bank (AfDB) Loans

AfDB offers financial support to small businesses and startups across Africa, focusing on sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, and renewable energy.

• How to Access: Visit AfDB's official website to explore various programs and application procedures.

7. SMEDAN Matching Fund

The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) provides matching funds in collaboration with microfinance banks to assist SMEs with affordable loans.

• Example: A bakery looking to purchase new ovens and expand production capacity could benefit from this scheme.

8. Bank of Agriculture (BOA) Loans

BOA provides affordable loans to small businesses involved in agriculture, with repayment terms tailored to the farming season.

• How to Access: Approach a local BOA branch to apply for a loan tailored to your farming needs.

9. GroFin SME Finance

GroFin provides finance to SMEs and startups in Nigeria, focusing on businesses that show potential for socio-economic impact.

• How to Access: Submit a business plan to GroFin through their online platform.

10. Nigerian Youth Investment Fund (NYIF)

Launched by the Nigerian government, the NYIF provides loans to Nigerian youth aged 18-35 to support small business ventures.

• Example: A young fashion designer can apply for this fund to launch a new clothing line.

11. Shell LiveWIRE Program

Shell’s LiveWIRE program provides business training and funding to young entrepreneurs, particularly in the Niger Delta region, to foster innovation and job creation.

• How to Access: Submit your application during the annual call for entries.

12. DBN Loan (Development Bank of Nigeria)

The DBN loan is designed to provide affordable funding to SMEs through participating financial institutions like commercial and microfinance banks.

• Example: A digital marketing agency can apply for this loan through a local bank to enhance its digital infrastructure.

13. Federal Government Grant (GEEP)

The Government Enterprise and Empowerment Programme (GEEP) provides grants to small business owners, particularly women and young entrepreneurs, to foster business growth.

• How to Access: Register your business and apply online via the GEEP platform.

14. Seedstars Africa Ventures

Seedstars provides early-stage venture capital for African startups, including Nigerian small businesses in sectors like fintech, healthtech, and edtech.

• Example: A fintech startup in Lagos can apply for early-stage funding to scale its mobile app.

15. Grameen Foundation Loans

Grameen Foundation offers microfinance solutions to small business owners, especially in underserved communities, focusing on women-led businesses.

• How to Access: Apply for microloans through a partner microfinance institution.

16. Dragons’ Den Nigeria

A platform that allows entrepreneurs to pitch their business ideas to a panel of investors (the Dragons) in exchange for funding in return for equity stakes in the company.

• Example: A tech entrepreneur seeking investment can pitch their startup idea to secure equity-based funding.

17. Green Energy Fund (GEF)

This fund focuses on providing loans to businesses involved in renewable energy and eco-friendly ventures.

• How to Access: Submit a detailed business plan that highlights the environmental impact of your project.

18. LeapFrog Investments

LeapFrog Investments is a private equity fund that focuses on investing in financial services and healthcare businesses across emerging markets, including Nigeria.

• Example: A healthtech startup offering affordable healthcare solutions can seek funding to scale its operations.

19. Farmcrowdy

Farmcrowdy is a digital platform that connects investors with farmers, providing funds for agricultural ventures in exchange for a share of the profits.

• How to Access: Register as a farmer on the platform and list your farming needs for investors to fund.

20. Afreximbank Loans

The African Export-Import Bank offers financing solutions for businesses involved in trade and export within Africa.

• Example: A Nigerian company exporting agricultural products can apply for trade finance through Afreximbank.

Step-by-Step Solutions to Access Funding

Step 1: Research Funding Opportunities Begin by researching the different types of funding options available for your business. Visit the official websites of banks, government agencies, and investment platforms to learn more about their requirements.

Step 2: Prepare a Solid Business Plan Most funding options require a detailed business plan. Your business plan should include your value proposition, target market, financial projections, and how the funding will be used to grow the business.

Step 3: Apply for the Funding Once you’ve identified the best funding option for your business, go ahead and apply. Ensure all required documentation, such as financial statements, proof of business registration, and any other required certifications, are readily available.

Step 4: Follow Up After submitting your application, follow up with the fund provider to track the progress of your application. Some funding platforms also require interviews or pitches before they can approve funding.