The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) has unveiled the 2025 SMEDAN Pitch Competition, offering N20 million in grants to five exceptional entrepreneurs whose ventures reflect innovation, resilience, and sustainable growth.
The initiative, part of the National MSME Conference, seeks to inspire creativity and enterprise among young Nigerians and small business owners. It provides a national platform for entrepreneurs to present their ideas before investors, innovators, and policymakers.
Ten finalists will enjoy an all-expenses-paid trip to Lagos State, where they will pitch their business concepts live for a share of the N20 million grant.
According to a statement by SMEDAN, the competition “celebrates creativity and innovation in Nigeria’s MSME sector” and aims to support entrepreneurs driving inclusive growth and long-term sustainability.
Applicants are to submit a one- to two-minute video introducing their business, explaining the problem their product or service addresses, and showing how it connects to the 2025 conference theme, “Building a Future of Innovation, Resilience, and Prosperity.”
Application Details:
Entries close on October 28, 2025, and submissions can be made via smedan.gov.ng/msmeconference. Eligible applicants must:
– Be registered with SMEDAN at portal.smedan.gov.ng and possess a valid SUID.
– Own a Nigerian business operating for at least two years.
– Be available for the live pitch in Lagos from November 16 to 18, 2025.
Step 1: Elevator Pitch Video
Record a two-minute video introducing yourself and your business, showcasing innovation, resilience, and growth. Post publicly on social media, tag @smedangov, and include the video link in your application form.
Step 2: Application Form
Complete the form with personal details, business information, and your pitch entry via this link: Google Form.
