In a big move to support Nigerian entrepreneurs, Access Bank has rolled out a $100 million loan program in 2025. The most important part? 30% of this fund – a massive $30 million – is set aside only for women-led businesses across Nigeria. This loan program comes at a time when funding is one of the biggest hurdles for small business owners, especially for female entrepreneurs.
This is not just a local bank initiative. Access Bank is working with four major global partners to make this happen. The aim is to give small businesses – especially those led by women – a real shot at growth through reliable funding.
30% of Funds Focused on Women-Led Businesses
Out of the full $100 million available in 2025, $30 million is locked in for businesses that are either owned or led by women. This is connected to the 2X Challenge, a global program that promotes economic opportunities for women in business.
This means that if you’re a female entrepreneur running a small business in Nigeria, this year’s Access Bank loan scheme might be the financial support you’ve been waiting for.
DEG Leads with $25 Million in Funding
While Access Bank has partnered with international institutions before, DEG is leading the funding on this project and contributing $25 million directly. Other partners are also contributing to the pool. The plan is not just about offering money but helping women and small businesses build stronger operations, create jobs, and boost their communities.
Roland Siller, the Chief Executive Officer of DEG, said this funding will give small businesses a fresh chance to grow. He added that the real goal is not just financing businesses, but creating hope, jobs, and long-term progress in Nigeria.
Who Can Get This Loan in 2025?
If you are:
- Running a micro, small, or medium-sized business (MSME)
- A woman entrepreneur managing your own venture
- A business owner struggling to get traditional bank loans
Then you are eligible to apply. And Access Bank has already started giving out funds in 2025, so the sooner you apply, the better.
Applications can be made via Access Bank’s official website or branch offices. Once qualified, funds are sent directly through proper bank transfers. No cash payments are involved – following the government’s push for digital banking only.
Loan Distribution Already Started in 2025
The fund rollout is not just planned; it has already begun in 2025. Female business owners and small business operators can start applying through Access Bank’s official channels. Those who qualify will get the funds directly into their accounts through proper processes. The aim is to reach people who usually have no access to fair loans.
W-Initiative by Access Bank Already Supporting Women
Access Bank has already shown serious commitment to supporting women in Nigeria. Through its W-Initiative, the bank has helped more than one million women-led businesses in recent years. And overall, the bank has supported over 21 million Nigerians through its various social programs related to health, education, the environment, and business development.
The new loan program builds on that work and takes it further by involving international funding partners and focusing strongly on financial inclusion for women and small business operators.
Why This $100 Million Loan Program Matters in 2025
Running a business in Nigeria is not easy, especially for women. Getting funding is often one of the hardest challenges. Banks usually have strict conditions that small business owners cannot meet. This new $100 million support fund by Access Bank is set to remove some of those barriers.
By giving direct financial access to MSMEs and women-led ventures, this move is expected to help many businesses expand, start new projects, and hire more people. It will also contribute to job creation and growth in Nigeria’s economy.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Key Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Loan Amount | $100 million |
| Female-Focused Allocation | 30% ($30 million) |
| Main International Contributor | DEG (Germany) – $25 million |
| Other Global Partners | FinDev Canada, ILX Netherlands, OeEB Austria |
| Target Businesses | MSMEs, family-run firms, small corporates |
| Ongoing Impact | 21 million+ people supported by Access Bank |
| Women-Specific Support So Far | Over 1 million businesses through W-Initiative |
| Year of Loan Rollout | Already started in 2025 |
Final Words for Business Owners in Nigeria
This is one of the most focused and helpful loan opportunities available right now in Nigeria, especially for female-led enterprises. If you’re a woman managing a business or you run a small firm and need capital to grow, Access Bank’s $100 million loan scheme could be the breakthrough you need in 2025.
Stay informed, watch Access Bank’s updates, and prepare your business records. This opportunity is more than a loan — it’s a doorway to growth, independence, and success in the Nigerian business world.
This is not just financial help — this is your chance to build something that lasts.