The Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN) has announced the opening of applications for the 2026 DBN Entrepreneurship Training Program (DBN-ETP), offering Nigerian entrepreneurs in Anambra State access to free business training, mentorship, and a ₦8.5 million grant pool to scale their ventures.

Now in its 8th cycle, the DBN Entrepreneurship Training Program is designed to strengthen the capacity of Micro, Small, and Medium-Scale Enterprises (MSMEs) by equipping business owners with essential financial, marketing, and management skills. The initiative aligns with DBN’s broader mandate of addressing financing gaps and improving the bankability of Nigerian businesses.

About the Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN)

Established by the Federal Government of Nigeria, the Development Bank of Nigeria is a development finance institution created to support MSMEs through financing, partial credit guarantees, and technical assistance. DBN operates through participating financial institutions, rather than direct cash disbursement to borrowers, ensuring sustainable access to capital for eligible businesses.

Through programs like DBN-ETP, the bank focuses on capacity building, enabling entrepreneurs to become investment-ready and more attractive to lenders.

Overview of the DBN Entrepreneurship Training Program 2026

The DBN Entrepreneurship Training Program 2026 targets business owners operating in Anambra State, offering structured online training followed by competitive grant opportunities.

Participants will undergo intensive online courses hosted on the DBN BizAid Learning Management Platform, with top performers advancing to in-person training and grant consideration.

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Who Can Apply?

To qualify for the DBN Entrepreneurship Training Program, applicants must meet the following conditions:

• Business owner must be 18 years or older
• Must be a Nigerian citizen or legal resident
• Business must be operating in Anambra State
• Business must be registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC)
• Business must be for-profit, regardless of sector
• Applicant must commit fully to the training schedule if selected

These criteria ensure the program supports active, growth-oriented enterprises with strong local impact.

Grants, Duration, and Key Benefits

Participants who successfully complete the program stand to gain significantly through a competitive selection process:

• 50 top-performing participants will attend an in-person workshop in Anambra State (June 2026)
• 15 entrepreneurs will emerge as final grant winners
• ₦8.5 million will be shared among the 15 winners
• All platform participants can compete for a ₦50 million national cash prize pool

Additional benefits include:

• Free, high-quality entrepreneurship training
• Improved financial and business management skills
• Mentorship and business plan refinement
• Increased visibility and credibility for MSMEs
• Improved access to future financing opportunities

Mandatory Courses to Be Completed

Applicants must complete four compulsory courses on the DBN BizAid platform and achieve a minimum average score of 70%:

• Accounting & Bookkeeping
• Sustainability for MSMEs
• Marketing and Sales Techniques
• Credit Management & Access to Finance

Completion of these courses is required before progressing to the next stage of selection.

How to Apply for the DBN Entrepreneurship Training Program

Interested applicants should follow these steps:

1. Register on the DBN BizAid application platform
2. Complete the four mandatory courses within the stipulated timeline
3. Receive an email invitation to apply for face-to-face training (if eligible)
4. Submit the application form via the provided link
5. Await screening and shortlisting based on defined criteria
6. Successful applicants will be contacted via email and phone

Application deadline has not been specified, and early registration is strongly advised.

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FAQ

What is the DBN Entrepreneurship Training Program?

It is a free business training initiative by the Development Bank of Nigeria that equips MSMEs with skills, mentorship, and access to grant funding.

Who is eligible for the DBN Entrepreneurship Training 2026?

Business owners aged 18 and above, operating registered for-profit businesses in Anambra State, are eligible to apply.

How much is the DBN grant for 2026?

A total of ₦8.5 million will be shared among 15 selected entrepreneurs, with additional opportunities to win from a ₦50 million national prize pool.

Is the DBN Entrepreneurship Training free?

Yes. The training is completely free, including access to online courses and mentorship.

Do I need CAC registration to apply?

Yes. Businesses must be registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).

What courses must applicants complete?

Applicants must complete Accounting & Bookkeeping, Sustainability for MSMEs, Marketing & Sales, and Credit Management courses.

When is the deadline for DBN Entrepreneurship Training 2026?

The deadline has not been officially specified, so early application is recommended.

How do I apply for the DBN Entrepreneurship Training Program?

Applications are submitted by registering on the DBN BizAid platform and completing the required courses.