Access Bank Launches $100 Million Loan Initiative with $30 Million Reserved for Women-Owned Businesses
Access Bank has introduced a groundbreaking loan scheme in 2025 aimed at supporting entrepreneurs across Nigeria, with a special focus on empowering women. Through this initiative, a total of $100 million in funding is being made available to Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), with $30 million exclusively allocated for female-led businesses.
Empowering Women through Targeted Funding
In line with the global 2X Challenge, which promotes inclusive finance and economic participation for women, Access Bank is dedicating 30% of the loan fund specifically to support businesses owned or managed by women. This effort is designed to bridge the gender funding gap that many female entrepreneurs in Nigeria face.
This strategic financial support comes at a time when women-led MSMEs often encounter significant barriers to accessing traditional banking services and capital.
Who Can Apply?
This loan program is open to:
- Women entrepreneurs actively managing their own businesses.
- Owners of micro, small, or medium-sized enterprises operating in Nigeria.
- Businesses that have faced challenges securing loans from conventional financial institutions.
Applicants must meet standard qualification requirements, and the application process is open through Access Bank branches or their official online platform. All disbursements are processed digitally in line with Nigeria’s cashless policy, ensuring safe and traceable transactions.
Program Implementation and Impact
The distribution of the funds has already commenced in 2025. Eligible applicants who meet the criteria will receive financial support to expand operations, stabilize cash flow, and scale their businesses.
This initiative is part of Access Bank’s broader commitment to economic development and gender inclusion, reinforced by its W-Initiative, which has supported over one million women-led enterprises to date.
The bank’s collaboration with international funding partners adds a strong global backing to the initiative, emphasizing its scale and long-term impact.
If you’re a woman running a business in Nigeria and in need of capital to grow, this loan program could be a significant step forward in achieving your entrepreneurial goals.
