Saturday, 11 January 2025

Let Me Tell You a Secret

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Let Me Tell You a Secret

Bring Your Ears Closer

MSME Africa Pulse

Jan 11

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Dear entrepreneurs,

Okay, I’ll admit it: this is not your typical “Aspire to perspire” motivational speech with high-sounding rhymes. I’m about to tell you something that could completely change the game for you. Don't overthink it; it doesn’t involve buying the latest "get-rich-quick" course, neither am I about to show you the latest investment scheme that can double your money before you wake up tomorrow. The secret? Your network is your net worth, but not just anyone’s network — it’s the RIGHT network.

When it comes to networking the right way, while it’s always good to know a wide variety of people, the trick is identifying those who will actually push you forward. In Africa, we often mistake “connections” for “clutter.” The truth is, the real power lies in surrounding yourself with people who truly understand your hustle — people who know what it takes to get things done on the ground.

Here’s the catch: this doesn't always mean you need to partner with someone who has deep pockets or fancy titles. Sometimes, it’s the uncle who’s been running a kiosk for 25 years and knows the nitty gritty of the retail business. Sometimes, it's that neighbor who can connect you to the right supplier because they’ve got the real inside scoop. The point is, don’t underestimate the power of people who understand the local grind and can support your vision from the ground up.

So, here’s my advice: remember that the real goldmine is not the connections with the people you think will elevate you, but the ones who are already walking the path you want to take. In the end, it’s the right connections that will help you level up, and sometimes, they’re closer than you think.

Here’s what I have for you today:

Trending Business News
Opportunities Galore
Fun Facts about Entrepreneurship
Some Resources for you

Trending Business News

CBN Launches New Accounts to Boost Diaspora Access to Nigerian Economy

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has introduced two new account types—the Non-Resident Nigerian Ordinary Account (NRNOA) and the Non-Resident Nigerian Investment Account (NRNIA)—to enhance the participation of Nigerians living abroad in the country’s economic activities. Read more

Meta to Test eBay Listings on Facebook Marketplace, Expanding Product Access

Meta has disclosed that it will begin testing eBay listings on Facebook Marketplace in select countries, marking a significant step towards integrating the two platforms. The test, which will initially roll out in Germany, France, and the US, aims to provide Facebook Marketplace users with a wider variety of products available from eBay sellers. Get more details HERE

BOI Secures N 3.5 Billion to Boost Nigerian MSMEs

The Bank of Industry (BOI), Nigeria’s foremost development finance institution, has secured €1.879 billion (N3.05 trillion) from international markets in 2024—the largest funding deal by any African development finance institution. Remittance services. This milestone, spearheaded by BOI’s Managing Director, Dr. Olasupo Olusi, was achieved through a dual-layer guarantee structure in partnership with the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). More details HERE

Nigeria Launches Free AI Academy to Lead Africa’s Digital Economy

The Federal Government has launched a free Artificial Intelligence (AI) Academy aimed at positioning Nigeria as a leader in the global digital economy. The initiative, inaugurated in Abuja by the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, is in partnership with the Commonwealth Secretariat and Intel Corporation. Read more

UAE Launches Golden Visa 2025 Offers New Opportunities for Investors, Entrepreneurs, and Skilled Professionals

The UAE Golden Visa program has been updated for 2025, offering expanded opportunities for investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, and exceptional students to gain long-term residency in the country. Get more details HERE

Opportunity Galore

Call For Applications: Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Program 2025 For African Entrepreneurs ($5000 Seed Capital, Training and Mentorship)

Successful applicants will receive 12 weeks of intensive online training, access to a world-class mentor, and US$5,000 in seed capital to prove the concept, plus access to further funding. They will also gain access to the TEF network of startups.Apply today

Call For Applications: The Shecluded x CFYE Dream to Business Incubator Program (Cohort 5)

Are you a woman with a business idea or an early-stage entrepreneur looking to turn your dreams into a thriving business? The Shecluded x CFYE Dream to Business Incubator Program is here for YOU! Get more details and apply.

Call For Applications: Women Techsters Fellowship 2025 (Hands-on training, Networking, Access to job and Internship Opportunities)

Women Techsters Fellowship 2025, a free one-year experiential learning program designed to empower young women across Africa with in-demand technology skills. This highly competitive program, admitting the top 3% of applicants, aims to bridge the digital gender gap in the technology ecosystem and ensure equal access to opportunities for women and girls. Get more details HERE

Call for Applications: Google.org Generative AI Accelerator Program 2025 for Nonprofits and Social Enterprises ( Up to $30Million in Funding)

This global open call is looking for nonprofits, civic entities, academic institutions, and social enterprises to apply to participate in the Generative AI Accelerator.Get more details here.

Call For Applications: NTEEP 5.0 Entrepreneurship Empowerment For African Startups

The eagerly awaited fourth edition of NTEEP is set to provide another 500 startups with a golden opportunity to join a community of like-minded entrepreneurs. These startups will have the chance to connect with experienced businessmen and women who can provide invaluable support and insights. Get more details and apply HERE

You can access many more opportunities HERE

Fun Facts about Entrepreneurship

Did you know that ‘’The Fable of the Bees" by Bernard Mandeville (1714) is considered to be the first book written on Entrepreneurship?

This book is a collection of poems and essays that explore the nature of commerce, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Mandeville's work discusses the importance of self-interest, competition, and innovation in driving economic growth.

Some Resources For You

How to Successfully Apply for Tony Elumelu Foundation $5,000 Grant for Entrepreneurs

The Tax Reform Bill: All You Need to Know and How it Affects MSMEs, Other Businesses and Individuals

7 Entrepreneurship Funding Programs Nigerian Female Entrepreneurs can benefit from

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Join other Entrepreneurs across Africa in the MSME Africa Community HERE

Till next time

Ododoola, MSME Africa

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