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Through the DBN Innovation Hub, over 500 MSMEs and 80 high-potential businesses are empowered to grow, into market-ready enterprises, driving growth and long-term sustainability.
The DBN Innovation Hub is an initiative of the Development Bank of Nigeria to empower entrepreneurs in Nigeria's North-East and North-West regions with skills, resources, and networks for sustainable growth.
Our mission is to transform lives by accelerating MSMEs and lifting thousands of women and youths out of poverty through enterprise development. We provide tailored training, mentorship, and market access to high-potential businesses.
With strategic partnerships across finance, enterprise, and innovation ecosystems, we're building a sustainable future for Nigerian entrepreneurs.
Comprehensive evaluation of business needs and growth potential
Tailored training programs for business development and management
One-on-one guidance from industry experts and successful entrepreneurs
Testing business models and products in real market conditions
Preparing businesses for funding and investment opportunities
Support for scaling operations and entering new markets
Training Certificate or email notification must be attached to the application as proof
An open "Call for Applications" for the 80 incubation spots is launched. Only MSMEs with a certificate of completion from the DBN BizAid courses can apply.
MSMEs across the North-East and North-West are encouraged to complete the DBN courses on the BizAid digital platform. This serves as the project's broad impact metric and the mandatory first step for all potential applicants.
A rigorous selection process evaluates all eligible applicants to identify the 80 most promising MSMEs.
The 80 selected MSMEs are split into two cohorts of 40 for a 3-month intensive incubation program at the DBN Innovation Hub.
Each cohort culminates in a Demo Day, where 20 winners from each group are selected to receive grant funding.
The DBN Innovation Hub Project is a 24-month entrepreneurship acceleration program. The first 6 months focus on intensive training and capacity building, followed by 18 months of mentorship and acceleration support.
No, the program is fully funded by the Development Bank of Nigeria and its partners. Selected participants will receive all training, mentorship, and support at no cost.
We prioritize businesses in high-growth sectors including agriculture value chain, renewable energy, digital technology, creative industries, healthcare, and education technology.
Selection is based on a competitive process that evaluates business potential, innovation, scalability, founder commitment, and alignment with program objectives. The process includes application review, interviews, and business assessments.
Graduates become part of our alumni network with access to continued mentorship, investor connections, market linkages, and opportunities for further growth and collaboration.