LAPO Microfinance Bank (LAPO MfB) has announced plans to host LAPO SME Fair 1.0 on June 26, 2026, as part of activities to commemorate the 2026 World Small and Medium Enterprises Day, positioning the initiative as the first large-scale SME fair driven by a microfinance bank in Nigeria.
According to the bank, MSME Day Impact Dialogue session, themed “Driving MSME Growth Impact, Partnership and Innovation,” would serve as a platform to empower emerging entrepreneurs, promote innovation and deepen access to finance for small businesses. The event will bring together MSMEs, policymakers, development partners and industry stakeholders to explore growth opportunities and strengthen Nigeria’s enterprise ecosystem.
Speaking ahead of the event, the Director, Marketing and Communications, LAPO MfB, Oluremi Akande, said the fair reflects the bank’s commitment to redefining how microfinance institutions support business growth beyond traditional lending.
He said, “With LAPO SME Fair 1.0, we are creating a platform that goes beyond financing to enable visibility, market access and enterprise development for MSMEs. As the first microfinance bank-led SME fair of this scale, it reflects our commitment to shaping the future of small businesses in Nigeria.
“MSMEs are central to economic growth, and the next generation of entrepreneurs must be equipped with the right tools, networks and financial support to succeed. This initiative is designed to connect them to opportunities that will drive innovation, resilience and sustainable growth.”
The bank noted that pre-event activities would include stakeholder engagements, media interactions, digital campaigns and the showcasing of success stories from entrepreneurs supported through its financial and capacity-building programmes.
It added that the fair would feature exhibitions, business clinics, networking sessions and thought leadership discussions focused on digital transformation, access to finance and youth-driven enterprise development.
World SME Day, observed annually on June 27, highlights the role of small businesses in job creation, poverty reduction and inclusive economic growth.
LAPO MfB reaffirmed its commitment to supporting MSMEs through tailored financial products, strategic partnerships and initiatives aimed at expanding opportunities for underserved segments, particularly women and youth.
