The National MSME Conference 2024, which took place from October 3rd to 5th at the State House Banquet Hall, Presidential Villa, witnessed thousands of attendees, including MSME owners, key stakeholders, governors, ministers and policymakers, making it undoubtedly the largest and most attended MSME conference in Nigeria’s history.
Over three days, various activities took place, including insightful and educational panel sessions covering topics such as export facilities for SMEs, how the government can support SMEs in Nigeria, financial management, and harnessing creativity for profitability as a small business owner. There were keynote addresses from policymakers and high-profile stakeholders both within and outside the country, as well as masterclasses on legal matters and training sessions by Google.
Exhibitions allowed SME owners to showcase their products and make sales, while awards were presented to outstanding governors in the country who support small businesses. The highly anticipated Pitch Competition featured ten unique pitches, with a grand prize of 10 million Naira and other financial and support benefits.
Businesses left the conference with new ideas and experiences, feeling fulfilled, happy, charged, and empowered to innovate. In the words of one SME owner present, “I realized why it was necessary to attend this conference. I not only learned new ideas to help my business, but I also met key influential people who are ready to help my business grow. I am grateful to SMEDAN for this opportunity.”
