The Access Bank W Initiative Womenpreneur Pitch-a-ton is back with a bigger opportunity for women entrepreneurs in Nigeria and across Africa. This edition offers up to ₦5 million in business grants alongside a Mini-MBA training program, empowering women-led businesses to grow, scale, and create sustainable impact.
- Are you a woman who owns 50% and above shareholding in a business?
- Is your business registered with the CAC and have been running for at least 1 year?
- Is your business innovative?
- Would you like to receive expert training to help grow your business?
- Do you need a grant to expand your business?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, the Access Bank women entrepreneur program
is for you.
About Access Bank W Initiative Womenpreneur Pitch-a-ton 2025
Launched in 2019, the Womenpreneur Pitch-a-ton program is the first women-in-business support initiative of its kind in the industry offered by Access Bank’s W Initiative. The program in its maiden edition provided a free mini-MBA certification for 50 women entrepreneurs in Nigeria as well as financial grants worth N9Million to the top 3 applicants.
The Access Bank business grants for women has since provided Mini-MBA to over 878 women entrepreneurs across Africa. This year hosts the 7th season of the program and seeks to provide mini-MBA certification to another 120 women entrepreneurs in Nigeria as well as grants of up to 5 million Naira to WSMEs.
In 2025, the program continues its mission by providing:
- Up to ₦5 million in business grants
- Access to an intensive Mini-MBA program in partnership with the International Finance Corporation (IFC)
- Networking and mentorship opportunities
Requirements and Eligibility
To qualify for the Access Bank W Initiative Womenpreneur Pitch-a-ton 2025, applicants must meet the following criteria:
1st Stage
- Applicants must have an Access Bank account number (Individual or Business account)
- Applicant must be a woman in Business with a minimum of 50% ownership
- Applicant must be between the ages 18 to 55
- Applicant’s Business must have been operating for over 1yr
- Applicant must complete and submit the application form
2nd Stage
- Applicant must submit a one-minute video pitch about the Business
- Applicant must have a Business account with Access Bank
- Applicant’s Business must be registered
- Applicant must be available to undergo the Mini-MBA program
Also Apply: How to Get Free CAC Registration via SMEDAN in Nigeria 2025 | How to Apply Step-By- Guide
Benefits of the Program
Participants in the Access Bank W Initiative Womenpreneur Pitch-a-ton 2025stand to gain:
- Business Grants: Up to ₦5 million for winners.
- Mini-MBA Training: A comprehensive business education program delivered by IFC.
- Visibility and Exposure: Media coverage and brand recognition.
- Networking: Connections with other entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders.
- Mentorship: Expert guidance to refine and grow your business.
Selection Criteria/Process
Selection into Access Bank W Initiative Womenpreneur Pitch-a-ton 2025 will be based on the following:
- Business Viability: Strength, sustainability, and market potential of your business.
- Innovation: Uniqueness of your product or service.
- Scalability: Ability to expand within or beyond your current market.
- Impact: Contribution to job creation and community development.
- Presentation Skills: Clarity and persuasiveness in pitching.
Duration of Program
The Access Bank W Initiative Womenpreneur Pitch-a-ton 2025 will run for 12 weeks. This includes training, mentorship, and pitching sessions. Winners will be announced at the end of the program.
You Can Also Apply: Apply for AfNet Flexible Grant 2025 for Women-Led Initiatives in Africa (Up to $5,000)
Tips for a Successful Application
- Ensure your business story is clear and compelling.
- Highlight your impact on the community and job creation.
- Prepare a concise business plan or pitch deck.
- Practice pitching confidently, focusing on your unique value.
- Submit all required documents correctly and on time.
How to Apply for Access Bank Womenpreneur Pitch-a-ton
To apply for Access Bank W Initiative Womenpreneur Pitch-a-ton 2025
Follow the following steps:
Visit the official Access Bank Womenpreneur Pitch-a-ton portal.
Complete the online application form.
Upload all required documents.
Submit and await confirmation.
Early application is advised, as incomplete or late submissions will not be considered.
Application Deadline
Application closes October 3rd, 2025
