The SMEDAN GROWHer Accelerator Programme 2026 is an innovative initiative designed to empower women entrepreneurs across Nigeria. Focused on scaling women-led businesses, the program provides participants with essential mentorship, funding opportunities, business training, and market access, creating a pathway for sustainable growth and long-term success.
With an emphasis on fostering entrepreneurship and promoting gender equity, GROWHer is transforming the landscape for female business leaders in Nigeria. Whether you are looking to expand your customer base, secure investment, or refine your business strategy, GROWHer equips you with the tools and networks needed to thrive in today’s competitive market.
What is the GROWHer Accelerator Programme?
GROWHer is more than just a training program; it’s a comprehensive accelerator that helps ambitious women entrepreneurs take their businesses to the next level. The program is designed to:
- Provide expert mentorship from successful entrepreneurs and industry leaders
- Offer business training workshops to strengthen operational, marketing, and strategic skills
- Facilitate networking opportunities with investors, industry experts, and fellow women entrepreneurs
- Support access to funding opportunities for business expansion
- Help businesses increase visibility and unlock new markets
By combining education, mentorship, and resources, GROWHer creates a powerful platform for women entrepreneurs to achieve scalable growth and long-term impact.
Also Apply For: MPOWER Financing Women in STEM Scholarship 2026
Why Join the GROWHer Programme?
The GROWHer Accelerator is a high-impact program that fuels the growth of women-led businesses. Participants gain strategic insights, industry connections, and the confidence to scale their businesses successfully. The program is particularly ideal for entrepreneurs who are ready to take their business to the next level and make a meaningful impact in their communities and industries.
Through mentorship sessions, masterclasses, and networking events, participants receive guidance tailored to their business needs. GROWHer is designed not just to support growth but to foster a community of empowered women entrepreneurs, creating opportunities for collaboration and shared success.
Eligibility Criteria
To participate in the GROWHer Accelerator Programme 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Market-Ready: Your business should have a product or service ready to scale.
- Women-Led: The business must be founded or co-founded by a woman aged 18-50.
- Established: Your business must be operational for at least three years.
- Financially Active: The business must have an active bank account.
- Nigeria-Based: The business must be registered and operating in Nigeria.
By ensuring businesses meet these criteria, GROWHer maximizes the potential impact of its support on women-led ventures.
Benefits of the GROWHer Accelerator
Participants in the GROWHer programme enjoy a wide range of benefits, including:
- Expert Mentorship: Gain insights and guidance from top industry leaders and successful entrepreneurs.
- Business Training: Strengthen skills through high-impact workshops on marketing, operations, and strategic planning.
- Powerful Networking: Connect with investors, industry experts, and like-minded women entrepreneurs.
- Funding Opportunities: Access capital to scale operations and expand business activities.
- Market Expansion: Increase brand visibility and unlock new customer and market opportunities.
This holistic approach ensures that GROWHer participants are not just learning but are actively positioned for measurable business growth.
Application Process
Interested entrepreneurs must prepare and submit the following documents to be considered for the GROWHer Accelerator Programme 2026:
- CAC Certificate (Business Registration)
- Proof of Business Ownership (e.g., Share Certificate, Memorandum of Association)
- Valid Government-Issued ID (e.g., Passport, Driver’s Licence)
- Business Bank Statement (Last 6 months)
- Product/Service Brochure or Catalogue
- Brief Business Plan (Max. 2 pages)
All documents should be submitted via email to growher@smedan.gov.ng before the application deadline: 4th April 2026.
Selection Process
The selection process is competitive, and only businesses that meet all eligibility criteria will be considered. Applicants are selected based on business potential, scalability, and alignment with program objectives. Successful participants will be notified after a thorough review process. Those not selected are encouraged to reapply in future cycles.
The SMEDAN GROWHer Accelerator Programme 2026 is a golden opportunity for Nigerian women entrepreneurs to access mentorship, funding, training, and networks that can transform their businesses. By empowering women-led businesses, GROWHer not only promotes economic growth but also strengthens gender inclusion in Nigeria’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Women entrepreneurs seeking to scale their businesses and create meaningful impact should take advantage of this transformative initiative. Ensure your application is submitted before 4th April 2026 to join a vibrant community of ambitious women leaders shaping the future of business in Nigeria.
For more information, visit the SMEDAN GROWHer Accelerator Programme.
