Sterling Bank, in partnership with key stakeholders, has reaffirmed its dedication to bolstering Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) at the 2024 Start to Scale Summit. This annual event, organized by The Business Hub, brought together entrepreneurs, industry experts, and corporate leaders in Lagos to discuss strategies for strengthening Nigeria’s SME sector.
Under the theme “Growing Against All Odds,” the summit provided a vital networking and learning platform for both aspiring and established business owners to explore ways of navigating Nigeria’s challenging economic environment. According to a statement released by Sterling Bank on Monday, participants engaged in workshops and panel discussions addressing crucial topics like financial management, innovative marketing strategies, and enhancing operational efficiency.
One of the summit’s standout moments was a business pitch competition, which awarded cash prizes to three promising entrepreneurs to support their ventures. Reflecting on the event, Dele Faseemo, Divisional Head of Investment Banking and Specialised Markets at Sterling Bank, commended the resilience of Nigerian entrepreneurs in overcoming economic challenges.
“The tenacity and creativity of these business owners are inspiring. They continue to innovate despite the challenges they face, pushing our economy forward. This summit has equipped them with critical tools to scale their businesses effectively,” Faseemo remarked.
Head of SME Products at Sterling Bank, Bolanle Tyson, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of Sterling Bank’s support for SMEs.
She said, “We recognize that SMEs are the backbone of Nigeria’s economy.
“The Start to Scale summit aligns perfectly with our mission to empower these businesses. The insights and resources shared today will play a pivotal role in the growth of numerous enterprises across the country.”
The event was made possible by sponsors and partners such as Sterling Bank, Bumpa, Noor Takaful, OmniX, SMEDAN, Imperium, Grubbix, Banca, Fez Delivery, GFA Technologies, GIZ, and Zoho, whose contributions underscore the collaborative approach needed to foster a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Looking to the future, The Business Hub announced plans to expand the summit’s reach, with year-round initiatives to support SME growth through mentorship, continuous learning, and easier access to essential resources.
