Launched in 2019, the Womenpreneur Pitch-a-ton programme is Access Bank’s flagship women-in-business support initiative under the W Initiative. It is the first programme of its kind in the industry, created to empower women entrepreneurs with essential business training, financial support, and opportunities for growth.
In its maiden edition, the programme awarded free mini-MBA certifications to 50 women entrepreneurs in Nigeria and provided financial grants worth N9 million to the top three applicants, in partnership with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group. Since then, the initiative has expanded to 10 other African countries where Access Bank operates, training over 878 women entrepreneurs across the continent.
Now in its 7th season, the 2025 Womenpreneur Pitch-a-ton will offer mini-MBA certifications to 120 women entrepreneurs in Nigeria and grant funding of up to N5 million to selected women-owned small and medium enterprises (WSMEs).
Eligibility Requirements
First Stage
* Must have an Access Bank account (individual or business).
* Must be a woman in business with at least 50% ownership of the enterprise.
* Must be between the ages of 18 and 55.
* Business must have been operating for at least one year.
* Applicant must complete and submit the application form.
Second Stage
* Submit a one-minute video pitch about your business.
* Must have a business account with Access Bank.
* Business must be legally registered.
* Applicant must be available to participate in the mini-MBA programme.
Benefits
* Mini-MBA certification from a leading business school.
* Up to N5 million in business grants for selected winners.
* Access to business growth resources, mentorship, and a supportive women-in-business network.
Application Deadline
Applications close on October 3, 2025.
How to Apply
Interested applicants can submit their entries through the official Womenpreneur Pitch-a-ton portal: Apply Here
Source: Access Bank W Initiative
