The SME Mall has concluded its Women in Business Grant Competition (WIBGC), an initiative designed to support women entrepreneurs through grants, mentorship, and essential business resources.
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Over 2,000 applications were received from women representing diverse industries, including tech, agriculture, healthcare, fashion, and education. The competition culminated in selecting three winners, who demonstrated exceptional potential to scale their businesses and make a lasting impact.

The WIBGC offered participants a series of interactive training sessions, where they learned critical business skills such as business strategy & positioning, financial management, branding & marketing strategies, how to pitch your business and investment readiness. These sessions provided the women with the tools and insights they needed to develop and grow their businesses effectively. More than just a competition, the WIBGC empowered participants to transform their business models and scale for sustainable success.

After the training, participants were evaluated based on several criteria, including business viability, innovation, market potential, and financial feasibility. The judging process saw 20 semi-finalists present their business ideas to a panel of judges, with six finalists advancing to the Grand Finale. Each of these women brought forward innovative ideas and demonstrated resilience in the face of entrepreneurial challenges.

The winners were; Blessing Aniefiok of Dynalimb Technologies, in first place, Cynthia Ogwanighie of Kiyoko Foods as second and Badmos Comfort of Baams Creatives. Each of them went home with ₦1,000,000, ₦500,000 and ₦300,000 respectively.

Managing Director, The SME Mall, Speaking at the closing ceremony, Muyiwa Femi Pearse, emphasised the significance of empowering women entrepreneurs.

“The Women in Business Grant Competition was born out of a vision to equip women entrepreneurs with the resources, mentorship, and opportunities they need to excel in today’s competitive landscape. These women have shown that, with the right support, they can drive significant change and lead impactful businesses,” he said.

The firm lauded the judges and facilitators for their role in making the competition a success.
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