The Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN), in collaboration with the Grand Africa Initiative, has officially announced the DBN Entrepreneurship Training Program (ETP) 8.0 for 2026, offering a major opportunity for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across Nigeria to access funding, training, and business growth support.
According to the official announcement, the program is open to entrepreneurs nationwide and aims to strengthen small businesses by equipping them with practical skills, financial support, and access to valuable resources.
One of the biggest highlights of the 2026 edition is the ₦100 million total grant pool, with selected participants eligible to receive up to ₦3 million each to scale their businesses.
In addition to grants, participants will benefit from:
Over ₦50 million worth of prizes
Data bundles and business incentives
Access to expert-led entrepreneurship training
This initiative is part of DBN’s ongoing effort to support economic growth and empower Nigerian entrepreneurs with the tools needed to succeed in a competitive market.
Who Can Apply?
The program is specifically designed for MSMEs operating in Nigeria, regardless of sector. Whether you run a startup, small business, or growing enterprise, the training program provides an opportunity to gain both knowledge and funding support.
Entrepreneurs looking to improve their business strategies, access funding, and expand their operations are strongly encouraged to apply.
How to Apply for DBN ETP 2026
Interested applicants can follow these steps to participate in the program:
Register Online
Visit the official application portal: APPLY HERE
Enroll in Courses
After registration, applicants are required to enroll in all available training courses on the platform.Complete Mandatory Training
Participants must successfully complete the required courses to qualify for the next stage.Attend Physical Workshop
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend an in-person workshop session.Pitch Your Business
Finalists will pitch their business ideas for a chance to secure grants and additional support.
Deadline for Application
Applicants are advised to act quickly, as the deadline for submission is April 30, 2026. Late applications may not be considered.
Why This Program Matters
Small businesses remain the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, contributing significantly to employment and GDP. However, many MSMEs face challenges such as limited access to funding, lack of business training, and poor market visibility.
The DBN Entrepreneurship Training Program addresses these issues by combining capacity building with financial support, ensuring that participants not only receive funding but also gain the knowledge needed to manage and grow their businesses effectively.
The DBN ETP 2026 presents a valuable opportunity for Nigerian entrepreneurs to take their businesses to the next level. With millions of naira in grants, structured training, and national exposure, the program is one of the most impactful initiatives currently available for MSMEs in Nigeria.
Interested applicants are encouraged to register early, complete all required courses, and prepare strong business pitches to maximize their chances of success.