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Call for Applications: DBN Entrepreneurship Training Program 2026 for MSMEs (₦8.5 Million Grants Available)

Call for Applications: DBN Entrepreneurship Training Program 2026 for MSMEs (₦8.5 Million Grants Available)
Publication Date: January 31, 2026

The Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN) has officially opened applications for the 2026 DBN Entrepreneurship Training Program (DBN-ETP), offering free, high-quality business training and grant funding of up to ₦8.5 million to support the growth and sustainability of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

The 2026 edition is being implemented in partnership with the Anambra State Small Business Agency (ASBA), with a strong focus on building the capacity, bankability, and competitiveness of Nigerian entrepreneurs. For this cycle, over 100,000 MSMEs nationwide are expected to benefit, with 3,000 entrepreneurs targeted in Anambra State. (MSME Africa)


About the DBN Entrepreneurship Training Program (DBN-ETP)

The DBN-ETP is DBN’s flagship capacity-building initiative designed to equip entrepreneurs with practical skills in business management, financial literacy, sustainability, and access to finance. The program adopts a blended learning model, combining self-paced online courses with in-person workshops for top-performing participants.

Key Features Include:

  • Free, self-paced online business courses via the BizAid Learning Management System (LMS)

  • Modules covering:

    • Business Management

    • Financial Literacy

    • Sustainability for MSMEs

    • Credit Management & Access to Finance

  • In-person business development workshops for outstanding participants

  • Mentorship, networking, and business plan refinement sessions (MSME Africa)


Grant Opportunities

Participants who successfully complete the training and meet performance benchmarks will qualify for competitive grant funding.

Grant Highlights:

  • 50 top-performing entrepreneurs will be invited to an in-person workshop.

  • 15 finalists will be selected as grant winners.

  • ₦8.5 million in grants will be shared among the 15 winners.

  • All participants also stand a chance to compete for a ₦50 million national cash prize pool. (MSME Africa)


Eligibility Criteria

To qualify, applicants must:

  • Own or operate a micro, small, or medium enterprise (MSME)

  • Have an active business operating in Anambra State

  • Complete the four mandatory online training modules

  • Achieve a minimum score of 80%

  • Provide CAC registration or proof of business name registration before grant disbursement (MSME Africa)


Benefits of Participating

  • Free world-class entrepreneurship training

  • Improved business structure, management, and financial planning

  • Access to grant funding and national cash prizes

  • Mentorship and networking opportunities

  • Enhanced bankability and investor readiness

  • Increased visibility for participating MSMEs


How to Apply – Step-by-Step Guide

Interested entrepreneurs should follow these steps:

  1. Visit the official DBN learning portal:
    👉 https://learning.devbankng.com/asba

  2. Create an account using your personal and business details.

  3. Enroll and complete the four mandatory courses, ensuring you score at least 80%.

  4. Submit your business details and required documentation when prompted.

  5. Monitor your email and dashboard for updates on shortlisting, workshops, and grant selection. (MSME Africa)


Why You Should Apply

The DBN Entrepreneurship Training Program is more than just a training — it is a growth pathway designed to help Nigerian MSMEs become bankable, scalable, and sustainable. If you are an entrepreneur looking to strengthen your business operations, access funding, and expand your market reach, this opportunity is not to be missed.

Deadline: Applications are currently open and limited slots are available. Early application is strongly advised.


For more funding, entrepreneurship, and skills development opportunities across Nigeria, stay connected.

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