Nigerian small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) have a unique opportunity to secure funding as the Centre for Research in Enterprise and Action in Management (CREM) opens applications for its Endowment Trust Grant Programme (GETGP). This initiative will provide a total of N13 million in grants to 15 selected businesses, along with essential training and resources aimed at enhancing their operations and fostering sustainable growth.

The GETGP is specifically designed to assist Nigerian start-ups and MSMEs that face various financial and operational challenges. Kenechukwu Ohaeri, the Project Manager for GET Compass, emphasized the programme's goal of equipping entrepreneurs with both financial support and practical skills necessary for scaling their businesses. He noted that applicants must be at least 18 years old and have been operating their businesses for no more than three years.

To qualify for the grant, businesses must be registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and must be able to participate in a two-week workshop scheduled to take place in Lagos. The initiative welcomes applications from various sectors, including health, education, humanitarian services, enterprise and community development, and social entrepreneurship, provided that the ventures can demonstrate their viability.

Applicants are required to submit evidence of their operational status, including daily sales reports, monthly sales records, and profit and loss statements. Ohaeri highlighted that the combination of funding and capacity-building is crucial for helping entrepreneurs navigate the challenging business environment in Nigeria.

In the previous year, the GETGP has supported 60 beneficiaries, disbursing a total of N50.5 million. The increasing interest in the programme is evident, with over 24,000 applications received during the past four editions, showcasing the high demand for financing and support among Nigerian MSMEs.

Chike Ugwu, the Senior Operations Manager, stated that successful applicants will also gain access to a business clinic and training aimed at enhancing their financial management and operational strategies. This comprehensive approach is designed to not only provide capital but also to develop the necessary skills for building resilient businesses.

As the application deadline approaches on August 20, 2026, eligible entrepreneurs are encouraged to submit their applications promptly. Dr. Joseph Mfon, a member of the Technical Committee, pointed out the significant gap between the number of applicants and those who receive funding, which underscores the pressing need for financing and capacity-building within Nigeria's MSME sector. He called for increased participation from corporate organizations to support small businesses, emphasizing that stronger MSMEs are vital for job creation and overall economic growth.

The GETGP represents a significant opportunity for Nigerian entrepreneurs to secure the necessary funding and support to thrive in a competitive landscape. With the deadline looming, interested business owners should act swiftly to take advantage of this initiative.