SME Scale Up, a prominent initiative focused on empowering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria, recently joined forces with First Bank Nigeria to conduct a two-day workshop. This event aimed to spark organic growth and help SMEs unlock their full potential.
Held on August 23rd and 24th, the workshop featured notable speakers such as Ziad Maalouf, Managing Director of Seven-Up Bottling Company and the visionary behind SME Scale Up; Oyeyimika Adeboye, Managing Director of Mondelez West Africa; and Seleem Adegunwa, Managing Director of Rite Foods. These industry leaders shared their extensive knowledge and experience with an engaged audience of SME owners.
Titled “From Seedling to Sequoia,” the workshop offered a unique blend of insightful lectures, interactive discussions, and practical business simulations. Participants gained valuable knowledge and skills to enhance their entrepreneurial journeys in an enriching and supportive environment.
A highlight of the event was the use of customized business simulations covering key topics such as leadership, networking, commercial acumen, and cash management. These simulations provided participants with hands-on experience, allowing them to apply the concepts learned in real-world scenarios.
During her session, Oyeyimika Adeboye emphasized the critical role of leadership in driving sustained growth and development for SMEs. Seleem Adegunwa shared the innovative approach behind the success of Rite Foods, underscoring the importance of excellence as a choice that SME owners must consciously embrace to thrive in today’s dynamic business landscape.
The SME Scale Up initiative, led by Ziad Maalouf, aims to equip Nigerian SME owners with the tools needed to scale their businesses and contribute to the nation’s economic growth. Supported by Seven-Up Bottling Company, Rite Foods, Mondelez, First Bank, and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), this initiative is working towards creating one million jobs in Nigeria by 2035.
The workshop was met with high praise from participants, who expressed their gratitude for the valuable insights and practical guidance provided. One participant, Aniakor Leonard, remarked, “I want to thank the organizers for such an impactful workshop. It was inspiring, challenging, and educational.”
Mosunmola, representing the Menopause Support Initiative, also expressed appreciation, stating, “A big thank you to the organizers for this timely initiative. It has completely changed my mindset—I don’t have to remain small.”
The collaboration between SME Scale Up and First Bank Nigeria represents a significant effort to empower Nigerian SMEs and foster a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. By providing access to knowledge, resources, and networking opportunities, this initiative is helping SMEs realize their full potential and contribute to Nigeria’s economic development.
Other notable attendees at the workshop included Bolatito Akiboye, Head of Wholesale Business at First Bank Nigeria; Dominion Izedonmi, GM Business Optimization, Intelligence, and Technology; Emeka Anowai, National Head of Sales; and Segun Ogunleye, GM Marketing at Seven-Up Bottling Company.
