UNION BANK SUPPORTS 98 WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS

Union Bank of Nigeria, through its women-focused proposition, alpher, has partnered with Zuri Circle Network to support 98 women entrepreneurs under the Fearless Female Founders 2.0 Accelerator Programme.

The programme attracted 2,810 applications from women-led businesses across Nigeria, with 98 founders selected after a screening process that included business verification and compliance checks.

The initiative was designed to help women entrepreneurs strengthen their businesses through practical training, mentorship, access to funding opportunities and professional networks.

The selected businesses operate across sectors including agriculture, fashion, food production, technology, manufacturing, retail and professional services.

Participants received support in areas such as business operations, financial management, competitiveness and investment readiness, with the aim of helping them build stronger and more sustainable businesses.

As part of the programme, five women-led businesses also received grants after emerging as winners at the final pitch presentation.

Head of Retail Banking at Union Bank, Vivian Imoh-Itah, said the partnership reflects the bank’s commitment to helping women achieve greater personal, professional and financial success.

She added that supporting women-owned businesses could contribute to job creation, economic growth and wider financial inclusion.

Zuri Circle Network said the programme is aimed at addressing some of the barriers women entrepreneurs face, particularly limited access to formal financing, business knowledge and opportunities to scale.