Small and medium businesses drive jobs, income, and local growth across Nigeria. Access to funding, mentorship, and innovation support still limits many founders in the North West and North East. The DBN Innovation Program responds to this gap with structured support for MSMEs ready to grow, scale, and build strong systems.
This guide explains the DBN Innovation Program in clear steps. You get requirements, benefits, structure, and a full application guide.
About the Program
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.
The DBN Innovation Program runs through selected innovation hubs. These hubs deliver training, advisory support, and access to finance readiness. The goal centers on building resilient businesses with clear growth plans.
Acceleration Program Structure
The DBN Innovation Program follows a phased structure.
- Baseline Assessment: Comprehensive evaluation of business needs and growth potential
- Capacity Building: Tailored training programs for business development and management
- Mentorship & Acceleration: One-on-one guidance from industry experts and successful entrepreneurs
- Market Validation: Testing business models and products in real market conditions
- Investment Readiness: Preparing businesses for funding and investment opportunities
- Market Expansion: Support for scaling operations and entering new markets
Focus Sectors of the Program
We prioritize businesses in high-growth sectors including agriculture value chain, renewable energy, digital technology, creative industries, healthcare, and education technology.
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Who Can Apply?
You qualify for the DBN Innovation Program if you meet the points below.
- Small and medium businesses located in North-East or North-West Nigeria
- Businesses working in fast-growing sectors
- Companies that show potential to grow and innovate
- Founders willing to fully participate in the program
- Businesses that have been running for at least three years
- Companies with strong potential to create many jobs
Compulsory Training and Certification.
- Training Certificate or email notification must be attached to the application as proof
- Women’s Entrepreneurship Mindset Toolkit
- Credit Management and Access to Finance
- Sustainability for Small Businesses
- Marketing and Sales Techniques
- Accounting course
Benefits of the Program
The DBN Innovation Program offers direct value for serious fou
- Â Tailored training and business diagnostics
- One-on-one mentorship from industry experts
- Investor readiness and pitch preparation support
- Market expansion and access opportunities
- Networking with potential investors and partners
- Post-program support and alumni network
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Selection Process
The DBN Innovation Program follows a transparent selection flow.
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.
Selection favors clarity, impact, and readiness. Strong documentation improves your score.
 Duration of the Program
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.
How to Apply. Step by Step Guide
Follow these steps to apply for the DBN Innovation Program.
Step 1. Visit The Official Application Portal.
Step 2. Create an account with valid details.
Step 3. Complete the application form carefully.
Step 4. Review entries for accuracy.
Step 5. Submit the application and save confirmation.
Track updates through email and hub announcements after submission.
