For too long, women in Nigeria have had to build businesses with limited access to funding. Many have the ideas, the drive, and the impact, but not the capital to scale. That’s why Sterling Bank, in partnership with the Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN), is changing the game with a N20 billion funding scheme designed specifically for women-led businesses.
Through this initiative, women-owned businesses can access up to N75 million in affordable loans to grow across key sectors like healthcare, education, agriculture, fashion, manufacturing, and food & beverage. It’s more than a loan; it’s a bold step toward breaking down the financial barriers that hold women entrepreneurs back.
Why this matters
Running a business is tough enough without worrying about access to capital. This fund was created with women in mind, so the terms are practical, supportive, and growth-focused:
Up to N75 million in affordable loans
Flexible repayment plan of up to 3 years
Unsecured loan options for qualifying first-time borrowers (up to N15 million)
Designed exclusively for women-owned or women-led businesses
Backed by DBN, one of Nigeria’s most credible development finance institutions
Who can apply?
To qualify, your business must meet at least one of these conditions:
At least 51% owned by a woman or group of women, OR
At least 20% owned by a woman, with a woman in a leadership role (CEO, COO, MD, VP), OR
At least 30% of board members are women (where applicable)
Your business must also be registered in Nigeria and fall within the eligible sectors.
Loan limits at a glance
First-time borrowers: Up to N15m (unsecured) or N35m (secured)
Returning customers: Up to N40m (unsecured) or N75m (secured)
Asset finance facility: Up to N50m for asset acquisition (with equity contribution of 20/40%)
Repayment periods are flexible: up to 2 years for Business Support loans and tailored to the useful life of assets for Asset Finance.
Do you need to be a Sterling customer?
No. You can apply even if you don’t currently bank with us. However, once approved, you’ll need to open a Sterling business account to receive your loan and process repayments.
Final word
This is more than just funding: it’s a chance for women entrepreneurs to finally access the capital they deserve to grow, expand, and create lasting impact. Whether you’re running a school, a farm, a hospital, or a fashion line, this fund is built with you in mind.
Ready to grow your business?
Don’t let funding hold you back. Apply today through our SME channels or visit the link below to begin your registration:
Register Here
