Access Bank Launches $100M Loan Facility Supporting Nigerian Women Entrepreneurs

Several initiatives and investments worldwide are increasingly supporting women entrepreneurs and businesses led by women. The Cartier Women’s Initiative Regional Awards 2026 is accepting applications from women-led impact-driven businesses, providing substantial grants and mentorship to enterprises that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. In Nigeria, Access Bank has launched a $100 million loan facility with at least 30% earmarked specifically for women-owned and women-led MSMEs, addressing systemic financial exclusion and marking a significant milestone advocated by the WEEWantMore campaign. Uganda’s GROW Project, backed by the World Bank, focuses on empowering women entrepreneurs through business support services, training, and funding opportunities. Additionally, FemHealth Ventures is pioneering investment in women’s health innovation, demonstrating that targeted venture capital can yield both societal benefits and strong financial returns. These efforts collectively highlight the growing recognition of gender-responsive financing and entrepreneurship support as essential drivers of economic growth and social impact.