What began in 2020 as a basic entrepreneurship programme has evolved into a stronger and more impactful contribution to Nigeria’s entrepreneurship ecosystem, marking another important milestone.
Today, the Inspire, Create, Start, Scale (ICSS) Entrepreneurship Programme goes beyond training. It equips participants with the tools to turn ideas into viable businesses while connecting them to the resources they need to grow and scale sustainably.
This progress was evident at the launch of the ICSS Loan Financing Scheme, where government representatives, development partners, financial institutions, private sector stakeholders, and beneficiaries came together to mark a significant step forward—structured financing now available for ICSS graduates.
In partnership with Jaiz Bank, the scheme provides loans ranging from ₦250,000 to ₦5 million. This financial support is complemented by post-financing advisory, mentoring, and performance monitoring to ensure effective utilisation and long-term business growth.
The initiative directly addresses a long-standing challenge within the MSME ecosystem. As highlighted during the event, “Training alone is not enough. Access to finance remains one of the most significant constraints facing MSMEs.”
By bridging the gap between skills development and access to capital, the ICSS programme is enabling entrepreneurs to expand operations, create jobs, and strengthen their market presence. It reflects a more holistic approach—one that combines capacity building with the financial support required to translate potential into tangible economic outcomes.
Participants and beneficiaries at the event shared reflections on what improved access to finance and asset financing could mean for their businesses, reinforcing the importance of integrated support systems for entrepreneurs.
As noted by Dr. Karin Jansen, Head of Development Cooperation at the German Embassy, “For entrepreneurship to translate into jobs, income and economic growth, capacity must be matched with capital.”
This milestone further reinforces Germany’s commitment, through GIZ, to supporting Nigeria in promoting inclusive economic growth, job creation, and stronger opportunities for entrepreneurs to build and scale sustainable businesses.
