LAGOS, NIGERIA – The Business Hub (TBH) recently concluded its highly anticipated Start to Scale summit, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s entrepreneurial landscape. The event, held under the theme “Growing Against All Odds,” brought together ambitious business owners, industry experts, and corporate leaders for a day of learning, networking, and inspiration.
Now in its second year, Start to Scale has quickly established itself as a cornerstone event for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria. The summit’s carefully curated program addressed the pressing challenges faced by businesses in today’s dynamic economic environment, offering practical strategies and insights to drive growth and sustainability.
Attendees were treated to a diverse array of sessions, including engaging panel discussions, intimate fireside chats, and hands-on workshops. These sessions covered a wide range of topics crucial for business success, from innovative marketing strategies to financial management and operational efficiency.
A highlight of the event was the business pitch competition, where enterprising participants had the opportunity to present their ideas to a panel of industry experts. Three outstanding entrepreneurs emerged victorious, each receiving a cash prize to further fuel their business growth. This competition underscored the summit’s commitment to providing tangible support for promising ventures.
Dele Faseemo, Divisional Head of Investment Banking and Specialised Markets at Sterling Bank Ltd, remarked on the event’s impact: “The resilience and innovation displayed by these entrepreneurs are truly inspiring. In the face of numerous challenges, they continue to push boundaries and drive our economy forward. This summit has provided them with valuable tools and connections to scale their businesses effectively.”
Bolanle Tyson, Head of SME Products at Sterling Bank Ltd, added: “At Sterling Bank, we recognize the critical role SMEs play in our economy. The Start to Scale Summit aligns perfectly with our commitment to empowering these businesses. The insights shared here today will undoubtedly contribute to the growth and success of numerous enterprises across Nigeria.”
The summit was made possible through the support of key sponsors and partners, including Sterling Bank, Bumpa, Noor Takaful, OmniX, SMEDAN, Imperium, Grubbix, Banca, Fez Delivery, GFA Technologies, GIZ, and Zoho. Their involvement underscores the collaborative effort required to nurture Nigeria’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Looking ahead, The Business Hub plans to expand the reach and impact of Start to Scale, with initiatives aimed at providing year-round support to SMEs. These efforts will focus on continuous learning, mentorship programs, and facilitating access to resources crucial for business growth.
As the curtains close on this year’s summit, the energy and determination of Nigeria’s entrepreneurial spirit continue to shine brightly. The success of Start to Scale 2024 serves as a testament to the resilience and potential of SMEs in driving economic growth and innovation in Nigeria.
About Sterling Bank:
Sterling Bank is a leading financial institution committed to driving innovation and progress in Nigeria. With a focus on fostering economic growth and development, Sterling Bank invests in cutting-edge technologies and strategic partnerships to propel Nigeria forward in an increasingly competitive global landscape.
