FG Targets SME Growth with ‘Intentional Capital’ Model

The Federal Government has introduced a new approach to small business development, shifting focus from traditional funding models to what it describes as “intentional capital” to drive sustainable enterprise growth.

The strategy, being implemented through the Renewed Hope Enterprise Bridge Initiative, is anchored on partnerships with organisations such as Cascador and African Business Heroes.

In a statement released today, the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Entrepreneurship Development said the model integrates financing with leadership development, technical support and strategic advisory in response to persistent challenges faced by Nigerian entrepreneurs.

“The initiative will roll out the Digital Lions Programme in partnership with Alibaba Global Initiatives under the African Business Heroes platform,” the statement said.

“Insights drawn from recent stakeholder engagements revealed that while access to capital remains a major constraint, many businesses struggle more with the lack of managerial capacity and institutional support required to effectively utilise available funds.”

The government said the “intentional capital” framework is designed to close this gap by ensuring that funding is paired with the knowledge and systems needed for long-term growth.

Under the arrangement, according to the statement, entrepreneurs will gain access not only to financing opportunities but also to mentorship, business development support and networks that enhance sustainability.

It added that the initiative reflects a growing consensus that capital alone is insufficient to drive enterprise success without the structures that support execution and scalability.