At the National MSME Conference Award 2024 in Abuja, the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) granted ₦10 million to the top three winners of the highly anticipated #SMEDANPitchCompetition. The event showcased the innovation, resilience, and potential of small businesses in Nigeria.
Loom Chocolate took home the grand prize of ₦5 million, impressing judges with its commitment to boosting Nigeria’s cocoa industry by producing high-quality local chocolate products. This win highlights the brand’s mission to elevate the nation’s chocolate industry.
Negs Honey, known for producing pure organic honey and empowering women in rural communities, earned the first runner-up spot with a prize of ₦3 million. The business has made strides in promoting sustainable agriculture while supporting local economies.
Datestores, focused on offering healthier sweetener alternatives by using dates instead of sugar, secured second runner-up and received ₦2 million, positioning itself as a healthier choice for Nigerian consumers.
All finalists received financial rewards, acknowledging their creativity and entrepreneurial efforts.
SMEDAN extended special gratitude to ProvidusBank and the 7.15 Foundation, whose sponsorship made the event a success and underscored their commitment to empowering small business owners.
This year’s conference has set a new standard for fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in Nigeria’s MSME sector, with the future looking bright for these outstanding businesses.