The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is exploring investment opportunities in Pakistan with a focus on public-private partnerships that can support small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through better infrastructure, energy, and transport s… Read on blog or Reader SMALL BUSINESS INSIGHTS Read on blog or Reader IFC to back Pakistan's SMEs through infrastructure, reform investments By Busola Bamidele on April 14, 2025 The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is exploring investment opportunities in Pakistan with a focus on public-private partnerships that can support small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through better infrastructure, energy, and transport systems. This was revealed during a meeting between Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb and IFC's Global Director for Public-Private Partnerships and Corporate Finance Advisory, Linda Rudo Munyengeterwa. Acknowledging Pakistan's fiscal challenges and development needs, Aurangzeb emphasized leveraging global expertise and financial support from institutions like IFC to unlock SME growth through strategic reforms and improved infrastructure. Read also: IFC to back Pakistan's SMEs through infrastructure, reform investments Nigeria pioneers digital expansion across Africa for local tech firms Smart strategies every fresh graduate needs to know Nigeria eyes defence manufacturing boom with local sourcing, innovation funds Skills, strategy, and secrets to success for a social media marketer The IFC delegation, on a market-exploration visit, expressed commitment to supporting Pakistan's macroeconomic stability and private sector development, particularly in sectors critical to SME success. The minister noted that improved infrastructure and stable policies are key to empowering local businesses. IFC's advisory and financial support is expected to enhance the investment climate, encourage innovation, and strengthen value chains for SMEs across the country. With IFC's global experience and Pakistan's reform drive, the partnership aims to create a more enabling environment for small businesses to thrive.

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The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment, has launched a groundbreaking initiative aimed at helping Nigerian digital service providers easily expand across Africa. The Ministry is urging local digital businesse… Read on blog or Reader SMALL BUSINESS INSIGHTS Read on blog or Reader Nigeria pioneers digital expansion across Africa for local tech firms By Busola Bamidele on April 14, 2025 The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment, has launched a groundbreaking initiative aimed at helping Nigerian digital service providers easily expand across Africa. The Ministry is urging local digital businesses to participate in a new survey to identify their target markets and expansion plans. Minister Dr. Jumoke Oduwole emphasized that this initiative will create a simplified, clear framework for digital services, unlocking opportunities for Nigerian tech businesses on the continent. The move is designed to address challenges around market entry, registration, and regulatory complexities that digital services often face in Africa. Read also: Nigeria pioneers digital expansion across Africa for local tech firms Smart strategies every fresh graduate needs to know Nigeria eyes defence manufacturing boom with local sourcing, innovation funds Skills, strategy, and secrets to success for a social media marketer SMEs in Ireland Lose €17m to Email Scams By mapping out the exact countries Nigerian businesses wish to enter, the Ministry intends to focus trade negotiations on these markets, facilitating smoother expansion processes and enhancing Nigeria's digital leadership in Africa. This effort will also culminate in the first-ever comprehensive database of Nigerian digital service providers and their expansion barriers. Nigerian fintech giants like Flutterwave, Paystack, and Interswitch have successfully expanded within Africa, yet many face regulatory hurdles. This initiative aims to ease those challenges and position Nigeria as a digital economy trailblazer.

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Nigeria is laying the groundwork to become West Africa's defence manufacturing hub through tax incentives, regulatory reforms, and public-private innovation funds. Experts say defence industrial clusters and free zones will cut costs and spark collabo… Read on blog or Reader SMALL BUSINESS INSIGHTS Read on blog or Reader Nigeria eyes defence manufacturing boom with local sourcing, innovation funds By Busola Bamidele on April 14, 2025 Nigeria is laying the groundwork to become West Africa's defence manufacturing hub through tax incentives, regulatory reforms, and public-private innovation funds. Experts say defence industrial clusters and free zones will cut costs and spark collaboration among manufacturers. State governments, especially in insurgency-prone areas, are urged to procure security equipment from vetted local producers, promising faster deliveries, reduced costs, and regional economic benefits. Read also: Smart strategies every fresh graduate needs to know Nigeria eyes defence manufacturing boom with local sourcing, innovation funds Skills, strategy, and secrets to success for a social media marketer SMEs in Ireland Lose €17m to Email Scams Small shifts that lead to big growth With major security agencies like the Police, NSCDC, and NIS positioned as ideal first customers, local demand could catalyze domestic production of tactical gear, surveillance tools, and protective equipment. Stakeholders also push for a transparent defence procurement portal to boost trust, ensure fair competition, and drive innovation. With aligned policies and private sector readiness, Nigeria could transform its security challenge into an economic win. "Developing our defence industry isn't just about security—it's a chance to build national strength and create jobs," one expert noted.

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