81309429-Strengthening MSMEs' Competitiveness in the Nigerian Entrepreneurship Ecosystem

Project Objective: The Sustainable and Inclusive Economic Development for Decent Employment Nigeria Programme (SEDIN) aims to tackle high unemployment and underemployment in Nigeria by enhancing the competitiveness of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) to foster growth and employment in Plateau, Niger, Ogun, Edo, Lagos, and the FCT. Project target groups and key stakeholders: The project targets economically active individuals, especially MSME owners, founders, and employees. This includes women, youth, PWDs, returning migrants, IDPs, and other vulnerable groups. The political partner is the Federal Ministry of Budget and National Planning. Project Outcomes: Outcome 1: In supported MSMEs (micro, small and medium-sized enterprises), 10,000 additional decent jobs were created, 4,500 of which were filled by women. Outcome 2: 10,000 supported MSMEs have increased their turnover by 10% adjusted for inflation (of which 4,500 are female-led enterprises). Outcome 3: 20 Reforms that reduce the time and/or cost of doing business for MSMEs have been adopted. Outcome 4: 10,000 supported MSMEs (of which 4,500 are female led) have confirmed that their competitiveness has improved in two of the following five categories: a) Access to markets, b) Management skills, c) Access to enabling infrastructure, d) Access to finance, and e) Access to skilled workers. The following standardized entrepreneurial courses, known as the ICSS Entrepreneurship Development Programme, adapted from the SME Loop approach and methodology, have been developed by SEDIN. The programme has been implemented and institutionalised by partner institutions in focal states using a blended learning model that combines online and in-person training. ICSS progresses through four modules: INSPIRE, CREATE, START, and SCALE. The modules can be taken progressively or independently of each other based on specified prerequisites. The INSPIRE module educates participants on the economy and employment options, introducing strategies and tools for informed career decisions. It covers self-marketing and essential documentation like CVs and cover letters. The CREATE module guides trainees through setting up an enterprise, from business idea identification to official registration. It includes creative approaches like design thinking and prototyping, focusing on sales, financing, and pitching to investors. The START module helps participants create a comprehensive business plan, covering all necessary components. It also teaches how to access finance, register a business, pitch to investors, and conduct market research. The SCALE module focuses on business growth, covering digital marketing, e-commerce, and leadership skills. Participants learn to pitch to investors, finance growth, and develop a growth plan.