FSDH Merchant Bank has channeled over $3.9 million into enterprises led by women across a five-year span, delivering this update during its fifth Women in Business Initiative summit in Lagos. The institution worked alongside Bank of Industry, the International Finance Corporation, the Africa Growing Together Fund and WEAV Capital to create tailored financing packages for female business owners. Executive Director Stella-Marie Omogbai noted that capacity programs reached more than 500 women-led small and medium enterprises, while summits and masterclasses engaged an additional 2,000 participants.
Managing Director Bukola Smith reinforced the bank's mission to dismantle obstacles blocking women from credit and market opportunities. A specialized desk offers long-term loans with grace periods, short-term facilities without collateral requirements, and guarantee-backed partnerships that reduce lender risk. One credit facility from the Bank of Industry, providing up to 100 million naira at concessional rates, has been exhausted, prompting applications for expanded funding.
Managing Director Bukola Smith reinforced the bank's mission to dismantle obstacles blocking women from credit and market opportunities. A specialized desk offers long-term loans with grace periods, short-term facilities without collateral requirements, and guarantee-backed partnerships that reduce lender risk. One credit facility from the Bank of Industry, providing up to 100 million naira at concessional rates, has been exhausted, prompting applications for expanded funding.
