The SMEDAN WISE-P Women In Self-Employment Programme 2026, hosted by the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), is a government-led initiative designed to foster economic autonomy among women. The program focuses on empowering women from diverse backgrounds—particularly those in rural and semi-urban areas—by providing tailored business training, financial assistance, and mentorship. By addressing the specific barriers faced by female entrepreneurs, WISE-P aims to increase women’s participation in the national economy, promote gender equality, and ensure the long-term growth of women-led enterprises. The initiative facilitates access to critical markets and resources, ultimately enhancing the livelihoods and leadership roles of women within their local communities.
SMEDAN WISE-P Women In Self-Employment Programme 2026 Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Host Body | SMEDAN (Federal Government of Nigeria) |
| Target Audience | Aspiring and Existing Women Entrepreneurs |
| Focus Area | Self-Employment and Economic Independence |
| Location | Nigeria (Rural and Semi-Urban focus) |
| Primary Benefits | Funding, Training, and Mentorship |
| Application Deadline | Not Specified |
SMEDAN WISE-P Women In Self-Employment Programme 2026 Details
The WISE-P Program is a strategic government initiative focused on empowering women through structured entrepreneurship and self-employment opportunities. Designed to act as a catalyst for economic change, WISE-P provides a robust support system tailored to the unique challenges faced by women in the Nigerian business landscape.
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The program’s core mission is to bridge the gap in economic participation by providing women with the tools needed to establish and grow sustainable businesses. Through a combination of resource provision and capacity building, WISE-P endeavors to transform aspiring business owners into community leaders and economic contributors.
Award Details
The WISE-P program utilizes a multi-dimensional support framework to ensure that participants receive assistance ranging from foundational training to direct financial injections.
Benefits of the SMEDAN WISE-P Women In Self-Employment Programme 2026
Tier 1: Financial Assistance and Market Access
- Startup Capital: Provision of financial assistance to help women launch or expand their self-employment ventures.
- Market Entry: Facilitated access to broader markets, ensuring that women-led products and services reach a larger customer base.
Tier 2: Business Training and Leadership
- Entrepreneurship Training: Comprehensive workshops on business management, financial literacy, and operational efficiency.
- Leadership Development: Training focused on empowering women to take on leadership roles within their industries and communities.
Tier 3: Mentorship and Networking
- Expert Guidance: Access to mentorship from experienced professionals who provide tailored advice on business sustainability.
- Support Networks: Integration into networking circles of like-minded women entrepreneurs to foster collaboration and shared growth.
Eligibility Requirements for the SMEDAN WISE-P Women In Self-Employment Programme 2026
- Academic/Leadership: Applicants must demonstrate a strong commitment to entrepreneurship and a clear vision for their self-employment goals.
- Study Status: Open to both aspiring business owners (startups) and existing women entrepreneurs seeking to scale.
- Visa Status: Participants must be Nigerian citizens, specifically targeting those residing in rural and semi-urban areas.
- Program Admission: Applicants must be women from diverse backgrounds who are seeking self-employment opportunities and are ready to undergo intensive business training.
How to Apply for the SMEDAN WISE-P Women In Self-Employment Programme 2026 (Step by Step)
- Apply for Program: Visit the official SMEDAN WISE-P portal and complete the online registration form with your personal and business details.
- Eligibility Assessment: The SMEDAN team will review applications to ensure participants meet the criteria for rural/semi-urban residence and business intent.
- Automatic Evaluation: Candidates will be evaluated based on their commitment to the training modules and the viability of their business ideas.
- Notification of Award: Successful candidates will be contacted via email/SMS with details on their training schedule and resource disbursement.
Application Deadline: Not Specified
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the main goal of the WISE-P program?
The program aims to empower women through entrepreneurship, increase their economic participation, and foster gender equality in Nigeria.
2. Who is eligible to apply for WISE-P?
It is designed for women entrepreneurs and aspiring business owners, specifically targeting those in rural and semi-urban areas.
3. Does WISE-P provide direct financial grants?
Yes, the program includes financial assistance as part of its Tier 1 benefits to help women establish or grow their businesses.
4. Can I apply if I don’t have a business yet?
Yes, WISE-P is open to “aspiring business owners” who have a commitment to starting a self-employment venture.
5. What kind of training does the program offer?
The program provides business training tailored to help women manage finances, operations, and scale their enterprises effectively.
6. Is mentorship included in the WISE-P program?
Yes, participants receive mentorship and access to support networks to enhance their business prospects and sustainability.
7. Is there a geographic focus for this program?
While open to Nigerian women, the program has a specific focus on reaching women in rural and semi-urban communities.
8. How does WISE-P help with market access?
It provides resources and connections that help women-led businesses reach new markets and customers.
9. Are there any fees for participating in WISE-P?
No, WISE-P is a government initiative through SMEDAN and is generally free for eligible Nigerian women.
10. When is the deadline for the 2026 applications?
The application deadline for the WISE-P 2026 cycle is January 16, 2026.
