Telecommunication giant, MTN Nigeria, in partnership with the Bank of Industry (BoI) is supporting operators of Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMSEs) with grants to towards expanding their businesses and increasing their access to technical aid.
To this end, the telecommunication company held a 21-day bazaar and trade fair for operators of SMSEs.
The event was attended over 50 local entrepreneurs who showcased their products to guests.
Speaking at the event, the Chief Human Resources Officer of MTN Nigeria, Esther Akinnukawe said the programme was aimed at improving MSMEs through provision of technical support, skills and entrepreneurial knowledge to young intending and established entrepreneurs.
According to her, the grant, tagged “Y’ello Den Pitch-A-Thon”, is an opportunity for business owners to pitch their business expansion plans to qualify for financial and tech support from MTN Nigeria.
Akinnukawe disclosed programme was targeted young entrepreneurs, with special focus on women and people living with disabilities.
“This is the 16th year of our signature volunteer initiative designed to impact lives and communities around us. This year, we are ‘Empowering Entrepreneurs to Unlock Growth and Job Creation for Communities’ with a focus on leveraging skills, digital and financial tools to drive growth among entrepreneurs.
“In special focus are our women, youth, and people living with disabilities. We assure all our stakeholders that we remain unrelenting in our efforts to empower entrepreneurs and uplift communities in Lagos and across the country,” Akinnukawe said.
Also speaking, the first Lady of Lagos State, Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu described the exhibition as “a solid example of sustained positive impact.
“I find it particularly gratifying that this year’s programme is shining a spotlight on SMEs. I applaud the Lagos State officials, MTN partners, SMEs, MTN Board, Management and staff, and all other stakeholders present here today for driving and facilitating this noble cause”, she said.
