Fidelity Bank Plc has begun disbursing the Federal Government of Nigeria’s MSME Intervention Fund, administered by the Bank of Industry, with a strong emphasis on supporting women-owned businesses across the country.
The fund is designed to expand access to affordable financing for micro, small, and medium enterprises across all 36 states, reinforcing the government’s commitment to inclusive growth. Fidelity Bank’s role in the scheme highlights its longstanding position as a key supporter of Nigeria’s SME sector. This phase prioritises women entrepreneurs, in recognition of their role as drivers of innovation, job creation, and sustainable development.
According to the bank’s Divisional Head of Product Development, the decision to spotlight women-led businesses reflects Fidelity’s belief in their resilience and ability to generate wealth and employment opportunities.
Fidelity Bank has established structures to ensure smooth onboarding and disbursement, leveraging its nationwide branch network, digital platforms, and experienced relationship managers to reach entrepreneurs in both rural and urban communities.
The bank’s participation in this federal initiative aligns with its broader SME support programmes. Earlier this year, Fidelity launched the Fidelity SME Empowerment Programme at its Gbagada SME Hub in Lagos, equipping 100 growth-ready businesses with free POS systems, business software, bookkeeping and branding training, inventory support, and six months of post-installation monitoring. In May, the bank also signed a memorandum of understanding with SMEDAN to provide low-interest loans, capacity-building support, and market access for SMEs referred through the agency.
Beyond financing, Fidelity is building a wider ecosystem of support for small businesses, combining funding with mentorship opportunities, training, and access to markets. Women-owned enterprises are expected to benefit significantly from this approach, as part of the bank’s gender inclusion strategy.
Through the intervention fund, Fidelity Bank aims to strengthen Nigeria’s MSME landscape by expanding access to affordable finance, fostering business growth, and boosting job creation across the country.
Ranked among Nigeria’s leading commercial banks, Fidelity serves more than 9.1 million customers through its 255 business offices, digital banking channels, and a UK subsidiary. It has received multiple local and international recognitions, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award, the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by Euromoney, and the Export Financing Bank of the Year by BusinessDay’s BAFI Awards.
