Access Bank's "W Initiative" and EDC's Business Masterclass 2.0 aim to support WSMEs

Through The W Initiative, Access Bank Plc recently held a highly effective 2-day capacity-building programme for female entrepreneurs in association with the Pan-Atlantic University's Enterprise Development Centre (EDC).

The programme aims to address the major issues that women in business confront and provide them with the necessary tools for managing and expanding sustainable businesses.

At Access Bank, they are adamant that creating capacity is the cornerstone of every company's sustainable development and success. As a result, a key component of The W Initiative's aim is to make programmes like the Business Masterclass accessible, as stressed by Abiodun Olubitan, Group Head of Women Banking at Access Bank Plc.

"The W Initiative operates under the premise that supporting the success of female entrepreneurs and enabling businesses to flourish go hand in hand. We are convinced that our ongoing collaboration with Pan-Atlantic University will promote the development and improved operational effectiveness of countless women business owners, enabling them to prosper and make contributions to the growth of the economy," Abiodun said.

Participants were able to develop their business knowledge and gain priceless insights into plans for breaking into new markets and optimising operations through the interactive sessions. The HerVenture app, a cutting-edge learning tool designed to meet the requirements of female entrepreneurs in the start-up and early development stages of their enterprises, was also introduced to the participants in the programme.

The EDC also provided 20 female entrepreneurs with free business consulting services, social media optimisation consulting, advertising brochures, sponsored advertisements, and other tools in addition to the training. These tools were made available to expand market access and increase brand exposure.

African women-owned companies can watch some training videos on The W Initiative's YouTube channel and follow @thewcommunity on social media to remain up to speed on the services offered by Access Bank.

The Womenpreneur Pitch-a-Ton and a Mini MBA, which is accredited by the International Finance Corporation, are two further growth and capacity-building programmes provided by The W Initiative for female company entrepreneurs.