The Economic Forum Series® (EFS), and DiGiComm Enterprises have announced MasterCard and Smartcash Payment Service Bank (PSB) as headline partners for the 2024 Annual MSME Finance Awards. The event, scheduled for September 27, 2024, aims to recognize key innovations and policies driving financial inclusion and growth for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Nigeria.
Endorsed by the Office of the Vice President on MSMEs & Job Creation, the awards program also has backing from prominent stakeholders including the Small and Medium Enterprise Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), and the FinTech Association of Nigeria (FinTechNGR). Other key partners like Access Bank, Sterling Bank, Moniepoint, and Heirs Insurance are also playing a vital role in supporting the MSME ecosystem.
Jude Ndu, CEO of Economic Forum Media Limited, highlighted the event’s focus on recognizing institutions that are driving sustainable MSME growth. “Since launching the MSME & Start-ups Summit in 2018, we felt it was time to honor the entities propelling MSMEs forward in Nigeria,” Ndu said.
Categories for the awards include MSME Bank of the Year, Best MSME FinTech Payment Platform, and Best in MSME Financial Inclusion. The nomination process is overseen by Nairalytics, ensuring a transparent and fair selection process.
Ugodre Obi-Chukwu, emphasized the importance of data-driven decision-making in MSME empowerment, noting that the awards celebrate institutions excelling in innovation and sustainability.
Ukaobisike Uzoije, CEO of DiGiComm Enterprises, further underscored the event’s significance in showcasing Nigeria’s commitment to MSME development, adding that it will provide a platform for thought leadership and networking.
– Event Details:
Time: 5:00 PM
Date: September 27, 2024
Venue: Grand Banquet Hall, Civic Centre, Lagos
