Female entrepreneurs interested in taking their businesses further have been urged to register for a life-changing programme put together by Access Bank Plc called Womenpreneur Pitch-a-Ton.
At a press conference in Lagos, the Group Head of Women Banking at Access Bank, Ms Nene Kunle-Ogunlusi, said applications for the contest opened on Friday, September 19, 2025, and will close on Friday, October 3, 2025.
She disclosed that the Womenpreneur Pitch-a-Ton was designed to empower female business owners across Africa with essential skills, knowledge, and resources to drive business growth and self-sufficiency.
Through the scheme, the lender intends to equip hundreds of women with business training, mentorship, and access to funding since its launch in 2019.
“This year, the program is back and better, offering women entrepreneurs the opportunity to scale their businesses, gain visibility, and connect with like-minded trailblazers across the continent.
“The 2025 edition promises a rich and rewarding experience for women in business. Selected participants will undergo an intensive Mini-MBA program designed in partnership with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), equipping them with the knowledge and tools required to grow sustainable businesses.
“In addition, participants stand a chance to access significant financial support, with over N17.5 million to be awarded in grants to the most outstanding businesses.
“The programme also ensures that the impact goes beyond the winners, as other finalists will enjoy consolation benefits and other business support services to help strengthen their brands and operations,” she said.
Reiterating Ms Kunle-Ogunlusi’s comments, the Project Manager for Womenprenuer Pitch-a-ton, Ms Oyeyipo Ifeoluwa, said, “We have trained 878 women and awarded grants of up to $175,000.00 since the launch of Womenprenuer pitch-a-ton since 2019.
“The programme is not just about competition; it is a holistic journey designed to transform women-led businesses and contribute to Africa’s economic development.
“The program is open to women entrepreneurs whose businesses are registered, have been existing for more than one year and own at least 50 per cent shareholding in their business.”