The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) has officially announced the 2024 edition of the National MSME Conference. Themed “GROW NIGERIAN: Sustaining an Innovation and Digital-Driven Economy,” this event is positioned as Nigeria’s leading annual development gathering for the MSME sector.
Opening Ceremony
His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR will open the conference, which is set to take place from October 3rd to 5th, 2024 at the Banquet Hall, Presidential Villa, Abuja. The event will be supported by the German International Agency (GIZ) and Mastercard.
Key Highlights
According to Mr. Charles Odii, the Director-General/CEO of SMEDAN, the conference is considered the most important platform for bringing together entrepreneurs, policymakers, public and private sector stakeholders, and institutions that support Nigeria’s SME ecosystem.
The focus of the event will be on advancing the MSME sector through the eight core sectors identified in the GROW Nigerian strategy. This initiative, spearheaded by Charles Odii, aims to boost local production and increase export revenue by offering SMEs Guidance, Opportunities, Resources, and Workforce Support.
Core Sectors
The eight sectors targeted by the GROW Nigerian strategy include:
- Agriculture
- Light Manufacturing
- Fashion
- Creative and Entertainment
- Digital and Innovation
- Tourism
- Education
Special Guests and Experts
The conference will also host some of Nigeria’s top entrepreneurs and global experts. Notable attendees include:
- Tony Elumelu, Chairman of Heirs Holdings
- Hakeem Belo-Osagie, Chairman of Metis Capital Partners
- Jonathan Ortmans, Founder and President of the Global Entrepreneurship Network (GEN)
A unique feature of the event will be the premiere of The Smart Money Woman Season 2, a popular drama series by Arese Ugwu. The series’ co-stars, such as Timini Egbuson and Osas Ighodaro, will also be present.
Conference Activities
The event will offer a wide range of activities, including:
- One-Stop Shops: Key agencies like NAFDAC, CAC, SON, Nigeria Customs, BOI, NEXIM, NEPC, NIPC, and FIRS will provide direct access to entrepreneurs.
- Exhibition: SMEs from across the country will showcase innovative products and services.
- Business Clinic: Businesses will receive expert advice and solutions for structural challenges.
In addition, Google, the United Nations, and industry leaders such as Chude Jideonwo, Co-founder of Red Media and Joy Inc., will lead masterclasses on digital skills, finance access, business scaling, and leveraging international trade agreements like AGOA and AfCFTA.
Investment and Networking Opportunities
The conference will also feature a Deals Room, where scalable businesses will have the opportunity to secure investments from venture capital firms. Entrepreneurs can compete in a pitch competition to present their ideas and potentially receive funding. Several networking events will foster connections and partnerships within the industry.
Closing Ceremony
On the final day, the conference will close with an awards ceremony led by Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima. Government officials from all six regions will be honored for their contributions to SME development, including efforts in policy reforms, financial investments, and infrastructure improvements.
