Entrepreneurship: SME Accelerator to improve access to digitalisation, mentorship, funding

By Stanley Onyekwere

In order to empower and accelerate the growth of small businesses in Abuja and other parts of the country, Ayoba, the innovative all-in-one app revolutionising communication, entertainment and e-commerce in Africa has partnered with Adanian Labs to launch an SME Accelerator program.
The initiative comes at a crucial time, as Nigerian SMES play a vital role in driving economic growth and job creation in the country.
According to the Country Head, Adanian Labs Nigeria, Killian Mayua, the SME Accelerator is aimed at addressing the key challenges faced by small businesses, including limited access to capital, technology infrastructure, access to market and mentorship.
Mayua said: “The program is designed to foster innovation, improve competitiveness, drive growth and create sustainable employment opportunities.
“The Ayoba-Adanian Labs partnership brings together Ayoba’s comprehensive all-in-one app, which offers a messaging suite, hyperlocal content, gaming, music, and e-commerce, with Adanian Labs’ expertise in technology solutions and ecosystem development.
“By leveraging these capabilities, the SME Accelerator program will provide Nigerian SMEs with access to vital resources, including digitalization, mentorship, access to networks, technological support, and mobilisation of partners for funding enabling them to overcome barriers and achieve sustainable growth.
“By offering tailored mentorship, access to funding opportunities, and technological resources, the accelerator aims to equip Nigerian SMEs with the tools they need to thrive in the digital age.
“We are thrilled to collaborate with Ayaba in launching the SME Accelerator program, which holds great promise for Nigerian small businesses.
“Adanian Labs is a firm believer that Africa will realise its full potential once its SME sector is transformed. We have dedicated our work to building solutions that powers and digitises SMEs. Our joint efforts will support the growth of SMEs, boost economic resilience, and contribute to the overall development of this important sector.”
It was gathered that the program is billed to officially launch on Monday, July 10, and businesses will have two weeks to apply, with the top 20 to be announced. Applications will be through the Adanian Labs website.
According to recent statistics, small and medium enterprises account for over 90% of businesses in Africa, contributing approximately 50% of employment and 33% of the continent’s GDP. In Nigeria alone, SMEs represent about 96% of businesses, employing millions of people and serving as engines of innovation and economic progress.
According to Ayoba’s Head of Ecosystem Development, Sheila Yabo, “The potential impact of empowering Nigerian SMEs is significant. By strengthening this sector, the country can experience accelerated economic growth, increased job opportunities, and enhanced competitiveness on the global stage. Furthermore, supporting small businesses fosters entrepreneurship, drives innovation, and contributes to wealth creation, ultimately improving the overall socio-economic landscape of Nigeria.”
“We are excited to partner with Adanian Labs in launching the SME Accelerator, a pivotal initiative that will empower Nigerian small businesses,” further stated Yabo. “Through this collaboration, we aim to unlock the potential of Nigerian SMEs, driving economic prosperity and creating opportunities for sustainable development.”
However, the partnership between Ayoba and Adanian Labs, through the launch of the SME Accelerator, represents a significant milestone in fostering innovation, driving entrepreneurship, and contributing towards economic empowerment positioning Nigeria as a hub for SME growth and development.