Lagos State SME Export Accelerator Program Now Accepting Applications
The Lagos State Government, in strategic partnership with the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) and ImpactHER, proudly announces the commencement of the SME Export Accelerator Program. This groundbreaking initiative is designed to strengthen the capacity of Lagos-based small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to successfully engage in export activities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
If you’re an entrepreneur seeking to expand your business into new markets across Africa and beyond, this program offers the perfect platform to gain the tools, training, and support needed to make that leap.
Program Overview
The SME Export Accelerator Program is a comprehensive development initiative aimed at equipping 250 export-ready SMEs in Lagos with the knowledge, skills, and international trade networks required for success in global markets. The program will deliver high-impact training, business mentorship, financial access, and trade facilitation support to selected businesses.
Who Can Apply?
Eligible applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Location: Businesses must be legally registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and must operate within Lagos State. Proof of a physical business address is mandatory.
- Product/Service Viability: The enterprise must offer products or services that have demonstrated local market success, with strong potential for international competitiveness.
- Export Experience: Prior involvement in export-related activities is highly desirable. This may include export certifications (e.g., SONCAP, NAFDAC), or documented experience in international trade.
- Industry Focus Areas:
- Agribusiness and Agro-processing
- Light and Heavy Manufacturing
- Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals
- Creative Industries (Fashion, Music, Film, Arts)
- Financial Technology (FinTech) and the Digital Economy
- Renewable Energy and Circular Economy Solutions
- Professional and Knowledge-Based Services
- Business Track Record: Applicants should have operated continuously for at least two years and must demonstrate verifiable revenue history through bank statements or audited financial reports.
- Entrepreneurial Leadership:
- Business owners must be 25 years of age or older.
- Proficiency in English (both spoken and written) is essential.
- A valid international passport with at least 12 months of validity is required.
- Digital Competence: Applicants must showcase a functional digital footprint—this could include an operational website, social media engagement, or active e-commerce platforms.
- Compliance Status: Only businesses in good standing—both legally and financially—will be considered.
What Participants Will Gain
Successful applicants will benefit from a wide array of capacity-building opportunities, including:
- World-Class Export Training: Delivered both virtually and in-person, focused on the essentials of export readiness and cross-border trade.
- Expert Mentorship: Ongoing guidance from seasoned professionals in trade, export compliance, and international market development.
- Practical Experience & Engagement:
- Simulated Export Negotiations
- Business-to-Business (B2B) and Business-to-Government (B2G) Matchmaking
- Site visits to key export processing zones and industrial hubs
- Live pitching sessions to potential investors
- Showcase Opportunities: Top-performing SMEs will be sponsored by the Lagos State Government to participate in the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) 2025, offering them a platform to exhibit their products to international buyers and partners.
- Post-Program Support: Continued access to advisory services, trade promotion platforms, and linkages to export financing opportunities.
Apply Now to Expand Beyond Borders
The SME Export Accelerator Program offers an exceptional opportunity for Lagos-based businesses to transition from local success stories to regional and global exporters. Take the next bold step in your business journey.
👉
🗓 Application Deadline: June 6, 2025
Be Part of Africa’s Trade Revolution
Position your business as a key player in the AfCFTA and contribute to the transformation of intra-African commerce. Join a community of visionary entrepreneurs shaping the future of trade across the continent.
