The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria has announced plans to establish 100 new millionaire entrepreneurs via hands- on training and capital grants during the upcoming GROW Nigerian Conference 2026.
In a media briefing, the agency confirmed that the three-day programme is scheduled to hold from 8 to 10 November 2026 at the Ecobank Pan African Centre located in Victoria Island, Lagos State. The event carries the central theme, "GROW Nigerian: The Next Frontier for Innovation, Policy and Market Access."
What are the core objectives of the GROW Nigerian Conference?
Organised annually, the conference serves as a convergence point for founders, government officials, financial investors, and international partners. Its primary mission is to bridge existing gaps in funding, market access, and technical skills for Nigerian small businesses while actively influencing policies that foster a better business climate.
The programme integrates rigorous masterclasses alongside direct enterprise funding, ensuring participants acquire both the knowledge and the capital required to launch or scale operations effectively. Training modules will culminate in financial awards for outstanding attendees, supported by the Zero to 100 Pitch Competition designed to unlock further investments for high- potential ventures.
How much is the pitch competition prize pool?
The competitive segment boasts a total prize pool of N100 million. Payouts will be distributed across the Lagos conference and a subsequent gathering in the northern region of the country, with the grand finale and final prize presentations slated for 10 November.
Speaking on the initiative, Charles Odii, the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of SMEDAN, explained that the event directly confronts structural hurdles limiting the growth of indigenous enterprises.
"For someone who has learnt a skill but cannot afford the tools to begin, access to capital can change their prospects. For an existing business, knowing how to price properly, attract customers and manage money can determine whether that capital produces growth," Odii stated.
He further emphasised the long-term vision of the agency, noting that the goal to produce 100 millionaires merges technical training with fiscal backing to ensure beneficiaries build enterprises capable of creating jobs and driving economic sustainability.
What additional features are included in the 2026 edition?
Alongside the masterclasses and pitches, the conference will host the Nigeria First Fair. This public marketplace will run throughout the three-day event, offering attendees the opportunity to patronise local brands, explore indigenous goods, and interact directly with the creators behind the products.
Additionally, Wale Tinubu, the Group Chief Executive of Oando Plc, is scheduled to headline the event as the keynote speaker. He is expected to draw from his extensive corporate experience to guide discussions on enterprise expansion and private sector growth in Nigeria.