Female entrepreneurs often face unique challenges that can hinder their business growth and sustainability. From securing funding and accessing markets to overcoming societal biases, the hurdles are significant. In Nigeria, these challenges are compounded by cultural and structural barriers that limit women’s participation in the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Despite these obstacles, women-owned businesses have thrived immensely, contributing significantly to the economy, showcasing resilience and innovation.
SmallSmall’s commitment to inclusiveness and equality in the business and corporate landscape is evident in its operations, hence, the leading advocate for financial literacy and installment payment plans, proudly announces its collaboration with Herconomy, FezDelivery, CargoPlug, and MoneyAfrica towards the upcoming SmallSmall Fair 2024, set to hold at the Pistis Conference Centre on the 17th of August, 2024. This initiative is set to spotlight and support female entrepreneurs, reinforcing SmallSmal’s position on driving the need for growth in different facets of the Nigerian economy.
SmallSmall Fair 2024, an event expected to attract over 5,000 participants, aims to be more than just an exhibition; it is an acknowledgement of diversity, inclusiveness, and the entrepreneurial spirit of the everyday Nigerian. By partnering with Herconomy, FezDelivery, CargoPlug, and MoneyAfrica, SmallSmall is taking concrete steps to ensure that women entrepreneurs receive the visibility, support, and resources they need to thrive.
The leading women in business are looking beyond all forms of limitation, investing in constant innovation and rising against all odds in a myriad of male dominated enterprises. With sheer grit, they have shown that no obstacle should be a defining factor in a business’ success story. Their goal is to stay focused on the prize, further inspiring more women to persevere and push for success.
Seun Alley, CEO of FezDelivery, a last mile delivery company, remarked, “Logistics can be a major hurdle for small businesses. We are excited to support these women by ensuring they can focus on what they do best – running their businesses – while we handle their delivery needs.”
In a significant move to support female entrepreneurs, SmallSmall is offering 10 FREE basic booth spaces to women-owned businesses. Each booth is priced at N500,000 and businesses who are users and customers of Herconomy, MoneyAfrica, FezDelivery and CargoPlug can apply for the 10 free booths slots to participate in the SmallSmall Fair. These complimentary booths will be providing a unique opportunity for women-led businesses to showcase their products and services thereby driving economic growth through inclusivity.
Kikelomo Fola-Ogunniya, CEO of CargoPlug, emphasized. “Efficient logistics is key to business success. Our goal is to eliminate surprise fees, lack of trackability of shipments, high costs and other logistical barriers that entrepreneurs face, allowing them to focus on the core of their operations”.
These four innovative women owned/led businesses, Herconomy, FezDelivery, CargoPlug, and MoneyAfrica, collectively, have been at the forefront of advocating for women’s economic empowerment, pushing for a level playing field no matter the venture, providing tools for financial literacy, and supporting female entrepreneurs across Nigeria. By partnering with SmallSmall to give out 10 FREE basic booths to members of their community, the aim is to extend their reach and impact, helping more women showcase their businesses and connect with potential customers and partners at SmallSmall Fair 2024.
SmallSmall’s Co-Founder and Vice President, Naomi Olaghere, expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “Our aim is to promote gender equality in the business space and create a more inclusive platform where female entrepreneurs can thrive and contribute to the economic landscape of Nigeria. The SmallSmall Fair is not just about commerce; it’s about community, collaboration and creating an equitable business environment where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.”
The offering of free booth packages is an initiative designed to reduce the financial barriers that often hinder women from participating in business events. SmallSmall recognizes the significant contributions of female entrepreneurs to the Nigerian economy and is committed to fostering an inclusive environment which allows them to take advantage of the visibility and networking opportunities provided by the SmallSmall Fair, supporting the growth and success of their ventures.
Ifedayo Durosinmi-Etti, Founder of Herconomy, added, “This partnership is a significant step towards leveling the playing field for women in business. We are thrilled to collaborate with SmallSmall and other partners to make a tangible impact on the lives of women entrepreneurs.”
By offering free booths to these communities, “SmallSmall aims to highlight the diverse range of innovative businesses led by women and foster a collaborative environment where ideas can flourish and new partnerships can be formed” said Tunde Balogun, Co-founder/CEO SmallSmall. He emphasized, “Female entrepreneurs within the Herconomy, MonieAfrica, Fez, and Cargoplug communities are encouraged to complete the 10for10 Free Booth Initiative Form to apply for the free booths. It is imperative to note that interested participants need to be a member or user of any of these four strong communities to access this package. The application process is straightforward, and selected recipients will be notified in advance to prepare for the event.”
Tosin Olaseinde, Founder of MoneyAfrica, concluded, “Financial literacy is crucial for business sustainability. We are committed to empowering these women with the knowledge and tools they need to manage their finances effectively and grow their enterprises, hence our collaboration for SmallSmall Fair 2024.”
With the inclusion of a significant number of women-owned businesses, the fair will highlight the diverse and dynamic nature of Nigeria’s entrepreneurial spirit.
For more details on the SmallSmall Fair- attendance, exhibition, and sponsorship, please contact marketing@smallsmall.com or call +234 809 8666 255.
