World Bank and Visa Foundation Launch New Support for Women Entrepreneurs in Nigeria and Other Emerging Markets
The World Bank Group and Visa Foundation have launched a new initiative to help women entrepreneurs grow their businesses through improved access to finance, digital technology, business training and stronger financial support systems.
The programme will initially benefit entrepreneurs in Nigeria, South Africa, India, Colombia and Mexico, with a focus on helping women-led Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) overcome common business challenges.
“When women-owned businesses gain access to finance, digital tools and training, they create jobs, strengthen communities and drive economic growth.”
What the Programme Offers
The initiative is designed to provide practical support that can help women-owned businesses succeed. Key benefits include:
- Better access to business financing through banks and microfinance institutions.
- Digital business tools to improve operations and financial management.
- Business training and mentorship to strengthen entrepreneurial skills.
- AI-powered financial solutions that can improve access to loans using alternative credit assessments.
- Support for financial institutions and government agencies to create products that better serve women entrepreneurs.
Instead of relying only on traditional bank loans, the programme encourages innovative financial solutions that make funding more accessible for small businesses.
Why This Matters for Nigeria
In Nigeria, women entrepreneurs play a major role in economic growth, job creation and community development. However, many still struggle to secure affordable loans due to limited collateral, lack of credit history and inadequate business support.
This new partnership aims to address these challenges by combining finance, technology and capacity-building, giving women-owned businesses a better chance to expand, employ more people and compete in today’s digital economy.
Entrepreneurs are encouraged to strengthen their business records, embrace digital payment systems and stay informed about upcoming financial opportunities from participating institutions.
The World Bank–Visa Foundation partnership represents an important step toward reducing the financing gap for women entrepreneurs. By combining funding opportunities with digital innovation and business education, the programme has the potential to empower thousands of women-owned businesses in Nigeria and other participating countries.
Women business owners should continue building strong business profiles and monitor announcements from participating financial institutions as new opportunities become available.
Useful Resources
- World Bank (MSME Development): https://www.worldbank.org/en/topic/smefinance
- Visa Foundation: https://usa.visa.com/about-visa/visa-foundation.html
