The Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN), in partnership with the Enugu SME Center and the Office of Digital Economy, has launched the DBN Entrepreneurship Training Program (DETP) – Enugu Edition, a flagship initiative designed to strengthen Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) through training, mentorship, and access to grants.

The program aims to provide over 100 entrepreneurs with practical business knowledge, global-standard certification, and the opportunity to secure grants of up to ₦5 million each from a ₦100 million funding pool.

Capacity Building for Entrepreneurs

Participants will gain access to 11 structured business courses, covering areas such as:

Accounting and financial management
Credit and loan management
Business development and marketing strategies
Sustainability and corporate governance

The courses will be delivered through an online self-paced portal. Upon completion, participants will receive an official DBN Entrepreneurship Certificate, recognized across Nigeria’s finance and investment ecosystem.

The program will also feature a three-day in-person workshop in Enugu, scheduled for November 10–14, 2025, bringing together business leaders, financial institutions, and top trainers to provide hands-on mentorship.

Pitch Competition and Funding Opportunities

One of the program’s key highlights is the pitch competition, where shortlisted MSMEs will present their business strategies before a panel of judges, investors, and financial experts.

Winners will gain access to the ₦100 million DBN grant pool, with up to ₦5 million in non-repayable funding available per business to scale operations, adopt technology, and expand into new markets.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the DETP, applicants must:

Operate a CAC-registered business that has been active for at least two years.
Be based in Enugu or Abia State.
Complete the online training curriculum before participating in the workshop and pitch event.

The application deadline is October 31, 2025, after which only shortlisted candidates will proceed to the in-person phase.

Applications can be submitted at 👉 www.enugusme.en.gov.ng/detp.

The DETP is part of DBN’s broader mandate to improve access to finance for MSMEs and equip them with business skills to drive sustainable growth.

“This program is not just another training. It’s a pathway to growth. Whether you’re a fashion designer in Ogbete, a food processor in Nsukka, or a tech founder in Independence Layout, this initiative is tailored to help you scale,” the organizers stated.

With MSMEs accounting for over 80% of employment in Nigeria, programs like DETP are critical in strengthening entrepreneurship, reducing unemployment, and boosting local economic development.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the DBN Entrepreneurship Training Program (DETP)?
The DETP is a structured program offering MSMEs access to world-class training, certification, mentorship, and the chance to win grants of up to ₦5 million.

2. Who can apply for the Enugu Edition?
Applicants must own a CAC-registered business that has operated for at least two years and be based in Enugu or Abia State.

3. What is the deadline for application?
All applications must be submitted, and online training completed by October 31, 2025.

4. How much funding is available under this program?
The DBN has set aside a ₦100 million grant pool, with up to ₦5 million per business.

5. Where can I apply?
Interested entrepreneurs can apply through the official portal 👉 www.enugusme.en.gov.ng/detp.