Flourish Africa Rolls Out N300m Grants for Women Entrepreneurs in Nigeria
Flourish Africa, a women-focused empowerment initiative founded by Apostle Folorunsho Alakija, has awarded N300 million in grants to women entrepreneurs across Nigeria. This initiative aims to equip women with skills, funding, and business governance knowledge to grow sustainable businesses.
The announcement was made during Flourish Africa’s ninth annual conference in Lagos, themed “She Champions”, which brought together entrepreneurs, regulators, development partners, and private-sector leaders.
How the Grants Were Awarded
The grants were given under the fourth cycle of the Flourish Africa Grants Programme. Out of 506 women who underwent intensive training, 409 submitted business plans, 200 advanced to the pitch stage, and 100 women entrepreneurs were ultimately selected to receive N3 million each.
“We designed this process to be rigorous because Nigerian women entrepreneurs can build serious businesses. Out of 506 women trained, only 100 emerged for funding. That discipline matters because access to capital must be matched with capacity, structure, and accountability,” said Apostle Folorunsho Alakija.
The process emphasises merit, preparedness, and accountability, ensuring that only women with strong business ideas and structured plans benefit from the funding.
Who Can Apply and How to Be Part of It
The programme targets women across sectors such as manufacturing, agribusiness, food processing, fashion, beauty, and services. To be considered for future cycles:
- Register for the training programme – Flourish Africa regularly opens applications online.
- Attend intensive business training – Training focuses on business strategy, governance, and record-keeping.
- Submit a detailed business plan – Clearly outline your business model, goals, and financial projections.
- Pitch your business – Selected participants present to a panel of judges.
- Await evaluation – Only businesses demonstrating scalability, market potential, and accountability are funded.
This structure ensures that funding goes to entrepreneurs who are ready to grow and sustain their businesses.
Why This Matters
Nigeria has one of the highest rates of female entrepreneurship globally, yet access to formal finance remains a challenge. Flourish Africa’s initiative not only provides capital but also equips women with skills, governance knowledge, and investor readiness, creating opportunities for long-term business growth.
By supporting women-led businesses, the programme encourages economic inclusion, job creation, and stronger communities.
