The Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN) is inviting applications for its 2025 Entrepreneurship Training Program — a nationwide initiative designed to equip Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) with critical business skills and funding opportunities. Through this program, participants will receive free training, mentorship, and a chance to win up to ₦1 million in grant funding to support and scale their businesses.

Summary of Development Bank of Nigeria Training Program

• Host: Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN)
• Category: Fellowships
• Eligible Countries: Nigeria
• Reward: Full Sponsorship | Business Grants
• Deadline: Not Specified

About Development Bank of Nigeria Training Program

The Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN) Entrepreneurship Training Programme is an annual capacity-building initiative aimed at empowering Nigerian Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) with the skills, knowledge, and funding needed to grow their businesses.
Now in its 7th cycle, the program offers free virtual and in-person training sessions, covering key areas such as accounting, marketing, credit management, and sustainability. Participants who complete the training and meet the required criteria will have the opportunity to pitch their business ideas for a chance to win grant funding of up to ₦1 million.
The program is part of DBN’s broader mission to improve access to finance and foster economic development across Nigeria

Development Bank of Nigeria Training Program Eligibility

To be eligible for the DBN Entrepreneurship Training Programme 2025, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Must be a Nigerian citizen or legal resident
• Must be 18 years or older
• Must own or operate a for-profit business registered in Nigeria
• Must be willing and available to complete all virtual training modules
• Must be ready to attend the in-person training if shortlisted
• Must complete the four mandatory BizAid modules with an average quiz score of at least 80%

The program is open to both new and existing entrepreneurs across all sectors.

Development Bank of Nigeria Training Program Benefits

Selected businesses will receive grant funding of ₦500,000 to ₦1 million and attend an intensive face-to-face training session. This hands-on workshop will help entrepreneurs apply key business principles and receive tailored support. All participants can pitch their business ideas, with top performers awarded grants.
Program Objectives:

• Equip MSMEs with skills to develop viable business proposals
• Enhance access to credit opportunities
• Boost fund utilization, trade, and market access

Selection Criteria:

• Bankability: Readiness to access credit
• Feasibility & Sustainability: Strength of the business model
• Scalability: Potential for growth and job creation

How To Apply for Development Bank of Nigeria Entrepreneurship Training

• Register on the DBN BizAid app.
• Complete 4 mandatory courses with at least 70% average:
• Accounting & Bookkeeping
• Sustainability for MSMEs
• Marketing & Sales Techniques
• Credit Management / Access to Finance
• Receive an email link to apply for the in-person training.
• Submit your form and get a confirmation email within 24 hours.
• Shortlisted applicants will be contacted via email and phone.
• Physical training will take place in Abuja, Lagos, and Port Harcourt

Click Here To Apply