The Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN) is set to host a significant event aimed at boosting women-led businesses across the country. With support from Agence Française de Développement (AFD) and Sterling One Foundation, the Women Investment Readiness Accelerator (WIRA) Demo Day will take place on November 21, 2025.
Bridging the Gap for Women Entrepreneurs
This important initiative seeks to address the persistent challenges faced by female business owners in Nigeria. Despite playing crucial roles in driving economic growth, many women entrepreneurs continue to struggle with limited access to capital, quality advisory services, market opportunities, and professional networks necessary for scaling their enterprises.
The WIRA program was specifically designed to close these long-standing capacity and financing gaps. According to organizers, the program provides participants with essential tools, resources, and confidence required to expand and maintain their businesses in today's competitive market environment.
Demo Day: The Grand Finale
The upcoming Demo Day represents the culmination of weeks of intensive preparation for participating women entrepreneurs. These business owners have undergone comprehensive hands-on training in business development, received valuable mentorship, and participated in investment readiness coaching sessions.
During the event, participants will have the golden opportunity to pitch their business ideas and ventures to a carefully selected audience of potential investors, development finance institutions, and strategic ecosystem partners. This platform could potentially transform their business prospects through secured investments and valuable partnerships.
Leadership Perspectives on Women Empowerment
Dr. Tony Okpanachi, Managing Director and CEO of Development Bank of Nigeria, emphasized the program's significance in unlocking the potential of women entrepreneurs who have historically been underserved in the business landscape.
Echoing this sentiment, Olapeju Ibekwe, CEO of Sterling One Foundation, highlighted that the Demo Day reflects their organization's strong commitment to long-term women's economic empowerment. Both leaders recognize the transformative impact that properly supported women-led businesses can have on Nigeria's overall economic development.
The WIRA initiative stands as a testament to the growing recognition of women's vital contributions to the Nigerian economy and the importance of providing them with equal opportunities to succeed in the business world.
