Union Bank, Fate Foundation Empower SMEs in Nigeria

By Modupe Gbadeyanka

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria recently had the opportunity to gain more knowledge on how to scale their operations at a training organised by the Fate Foundation Alumni Conference.

The event, in its 8th edition, was bankrolled by one of the leading financial institutions in the country, Union Bank of Nigeria Plc.

It was gathered that at the programme, participants, including chief executive officers of major businesses, SME and MSME owners, exhibitors, and Fate Foundation Alumni shared knowledge on crucial topical subjects essential for entrepreneurial growth and success from seasoned entrepreneurial leaders and influencers.

At the seminar held on Friday, September 29, 2023, and themed Strategically Positioning Your Business: Opportunities in the New Dispensation, allowed the lender to achieve its goal of fostering SME growth and enabling success for small business owners within Nigeria.

Union Bank has consistently been at the forefront of empowering entrepreneurs to build successful and sustainable businesses through its provision of dedicated SME products, low-interest loans, and flexible repayment services that have helped them unleash their entrepreneurial spirit with creativity and drive, to bring about positive change in their respective communities.

Awards like the 2023 Global Finance Award for Best SME Bank of the Year, for instance, highlight the bank’s unwavering commitment to the SME sector and small businesses in Nigeria.

“Union Bank is truly excited to be part of this exceptional event dedicated to empowering Nigerian entrepreneurs because this conference aligns with our organisational mission of enabling success for entrepreneurs.

“This year’s conference is not just timely but a call to action. Entrepreneurs are the catalysts of change, innovation, and progress in a rapidly evolving world. Therefore, it is important to gather to discuss ways to move forward,” the Chief Brand and Marketing Officer of Union Bank, Ms Olufunmilola Aluko, said.

FATE Foundation is a non-profit organisation that seeks to enable aspiring and emerging Nigerian entrepreneurs to start, grow and scale their businesses while also facilitating the development of an enabling business and thriving ecosystem.

Over the years, the NGO has impacted over 7,500 graduates of their various Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) training programs.