In a significant move to empower women entrepreneurs, SheVenture the women-focused banking arm of First City Monument Bank (FCMB) has entered into a strategic partnership with the Women Enterprise Alliance (WENA) to accelerate the growth and sustainability of women-led businesses across Nigeria’s North Central region.
The partnership was formalised during a signing ceremony held at WENA’s head office in Abuja, marking the launch of a high-impact collaboration targeting over 150 women-led small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Through this initiative, participants will gain access to funding, market linkages, capacity development programmes, and enterprise support tailored to their business stages and sectors.
According to a joint statement by both organisations, the programme aims not only to strengthen existing women-led businesses but also to nurture emerging entrepreneurs across local, state, and regional levels. A key highlight is the provision of business grants of up to ₦5 million for the top three SMEs emerging from the regional programmes, backed by selected investors and ecosystem partners.
Speaking at the event, Nnenna Jacob-Ogogo, Group Head of SheVentures at FCMB, described the partnership as a continuation of SheVentures’ mission to unlock the potential of women entrepreneurs across the country. “At SheVentures, we believe empowering women economically is one of the fastest ways to drive inclusive growth and community development,” she said. “This collaboration with WENA ensures that women in North Central Nigeria gain the capital, tools, skills, and exposure needed to thrive.”
Also commenting, Florence Onwumere, Head of Organisation and Programmes at WENA, expressed optimism about the partnership’s long-term impact. “We are excited to work with SheVentures, a brand that shares our vision of uplifting women entrepreneurs. Through this collaboration, we are expanding access to critical resources and shaping the next generation of business leaders in underserved regions of Nigeria,” she stated.
Both SheVentures and WENA have a proven track record in female business development, and this partnership underscores their shared commitment to driving inclusive, gender-responsive economic growth. As female-led enterprises continue to play a pivotal role in the nation’s economic landscape, this alliance offers a fresh wave of opportunity, support, and innovation for women determined to scale and succeed.
With its focus on finance, mentorship, market access, and business visibility, the SheVentures-WENA partnership is set to be a game-changer for women entrepreneurs seeking sustainable paths to business success in Nigeria.
