SMEDAN GrowHer Accelerator Program 2026: How Nigerian women entrepreneurs can apply for funding and mentorship
SMEDAN opens 2026 GrowHer Accelerator Program for women-led businesses
The Small and Medium Enterprise Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) has officially opened applications for the 2026 SMEDAN GrowHer Accelerator Program, a high-impact initiative designed to support women-led businesses across Nigeria. The program targets ambitious female entrepreneurs seeking to scale operations, access funding, expand into new markets, and receive expert mentorship.
With the application deadline set for January 16, 2026, eligible Nigerian women entrepreneurs are encouraged to apply promptly as competition for the accelerator is expected to be intense.
What Is the SMEDAN GrowHer Accelerator Program?
The SMEDAN GrowHer Accelerator Program is a transformative business accelerator aimed at strengthening women-owned enterprises in Nigeria. The initiative focuses on equipping participants with strategic business skills, access to essential tools, and growth-oriented networks needed to build sustainable and scalable ventures.
According to SMEDAN, GrowHer is designed for market-ready businesses that are already operational and positioned for expansion. The accelerator goes beyond training by connecting participants with investors, industry leaders, and growth opportunities.
Objectives of the GrowHer Accelerator Initiative
The GrowHer Accelerator Program seeks to:
- Support women-led businesses with high growth potential
- Improve access to business funding and capital opportunities
- Expand participants’ reach into new local and international markets
- Provide hands-on mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs
- Strengthen Nigeria’s women-driven SME ecosystem
By addressing common barriers faced by female entrepreneurs, SMEDAN aims to foster inclusive economic growth and innovation.
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Eligibility Requirements for SMEDAN GrowHer 2026
To qualify for the 2026 SMEDAN GrowHer Accelerator Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Women-led business founded or co-founded by a woman aged 18–50
- Market-ready product or service with clear growth potential
- Business must be operational for at least three years
- Active business bank account
- Registered and operating in Nigeria
Only businesses that meet all eligibility conditions will be considered.
Benefits of the SMEDAN GrowHer Accelerator Program
Participants selected for the 2026 cohort will gain access to multiple benefits, including:
Expert Mentorship
Personalized guidance from industry leaders and successful entrepreneurs.
Business Training
High-impact workshops focused on strategy, growth, operations, and sustainability.
Funding Opportunities
Direct access to capital and funding networks to help businesses scale.
Market & Tool Access
Opportunities to enter new markets and leverage business tools for expansion.
Powerful Networking
Connections with investors, partners, and other women entrepreneurs.
How to Apply for the 2026 SMEDAN GrowHer Accelerator Program
Interested and qualified candidates can apply by following these steps:
- Visit the official SMEDAN GrowHer application portal
- Complete the online application form accurately
- Submit all required business details
- Apply before January 16, 2026
SMEDAN advises applicants to ensure all submitted information is accurate and complete to avoid disqualification.
Application Deadline
📅 Deadline: January 16, 2026
Late applications will not be considered.
Why the GrowHer Program Matters for Nigerian Women
Women entrepreneurs play a critical role in Nigeria’s SME sector, yet many face challenges accessing capital, mentorship, and markets. The SMEDAN GrowHer Accelerator directly addresses these gaps, offering women the resources needed to build resilient, competitive businesses.
For female founders ready to scale, GrowHer represents a rare opportunity backed by a national development agency.
FAQ
What is the SMEDAN GrowHer Accelerator Program?
It is a business accelerator by SMEDAN designed to help women-led businesses in Nigeria scale, access funding, and enter new markets.
Who is eligible to apply for SMEDAN GrowHer 2026?
Women aged 18–50 who founded or co-founded a Nigerian business that has been operational for at least three years.
Is the GrowHer Accelerator only for Nigerians?
Yes. The program is open exclusively to Nigeria-based businesses.
What benefits do selected participants receive?
Participants receive mentorship, business training, networking opportunities, access to tools, and potential funding.
Does the program require IELTS or exams?
No. No IELTS or examination is required.
When is the application deadline?
The deadline is January 16, 2026.
Is the SMEDAN GrowHer program fully funded?
The program offers funding opportunities and business support, not a traditional scholarship.
How competitive is the GrowHer Accelerator Program?
Highly competitive, as it targets growth-ready women-led businesses nationwide.