DBN Academy Entrepreneurship Training Programme Cohort 2: Training, Mentorship & ₦100 Million Grants

Running a successful business in Nigeria requires more than determination. Entrepreneurs must understand financial management, marketing, customer acquisition, record keeping, and how to position their businesses for investment. Unfortunately, many small businesses never receive formal training in these critical areas.

The DBN Academy Entrepreneurship Training Programme (ETP) – Cohort 2 was created to bridge that gap. Organized by the Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN), this nationwide initiative equips entrepreneurs with practical business skills and provides outstanding participants with the opportunity to compete for grant funding worth up to ₦100 million.

The programme is completely free and welcomes entrepreneurs from every sector of the Nigerian economy.

About the DBN Academy Entrepreneurship Training Programme

The Entrepreneurship Training Programme (ETP) is DBN’s flagship capacity-building initiative for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Rather than offering classroom lectures alone, the programme combines self-paced online learning with practical workshops and a competitive business pitch.

Training is delivered through the DBN Academy (BizAid) online learning platform, allowing participants to study at their convenience before progressing to the next stage of the programme.

The programme consists of three phases:

Phase 1: Online Learning

Participants complete 11 business courses covering essential topics for business growth. Four courses are compulsory:

• Accounting and Bookkeeping
• Marketing and Sales Techniques
• Sustainability for Small Businesses
• Credit Management and Access to Finance

To qualify for the next stage, participants must score at least 80% in each of the mandatory courses. Successful learners also receive digital certificates.

Phase 2: Regional Workshops

Top-performing participants are invited to intensive three-day workshops held across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. During these sessions, entrepreneurs receive advanced business coaching, refine their business plans, improve their financial strategies, and prepare investor-ready pitches.

Phase 3: Pitch Competition

The strongest participants present their businesses before a panel of judges for the opportunity to receive grant funding. In 2026, DBN has committed ₦100 million in grants for 180 MSMEs, while top online learners also stand a chance to win ₦50 million in cash prizes, data bundles, and other incentives during the virtual learning phase.

Who Can Apply?

The programme is open to aspiring entrepreneurs and existing MSMEs across Nigeria. To qualify for the in-person workshops and pitch competition, applicants should:

• Own a business registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) or a recognised State Cooperative.
• Have operated the business for at least two years.
• Possess basic digital skills and reliable internet access.
• Complete the mandatory online courses and achieve the required minimum score.
• Be committed to participating in all stages of the programme.

Businesses from every industry are encouraged to apply, including agriculture, manufacturing, retail, technology, fashion, logistics, healthcare, hospitality, education, and professional services.

Why You Should Apply

The DBN Academy Entrepreneurship Training Programme offers benefits that extend far beyond grant funding. Successful participants will enjoy:

• Free access to professional business training.
• Practical lessons from experienced business development experts.
• Digital certificates for completed courses.
• Business plan refinement and investor-readiness coaching.
• Networking opportunities with entrepreneurs from across Nigeria.
• Access to regional workshops and mentoring sessions.
• An opportunity to compete for ₦100 million in grant funding.
• Membership in the growing DBN entrepreneur community.

For entrepreneurs seeking to improve their business systems, become investment-ready, and access valuable support, the programme provides a strong foundation for sustainable growth.

Deadline and How to Apply

Registration on the DBN Academy (BizAid) learning platform is open throughout the year. However, entrepreneurs who wish to participate in Cohort 2 and be considered for the November 2026 in-person workshops and pitch competition must complete the required mandatory courses on or before 1 October 2026.

To get started:

1. Visit the official DBN Academy learning platform.
2. Create your free account.
3. Enrol in the mandatory courses.
4. Complete the required assessments with a minimum score of 80%.
5. Wait for an invitation to apply for the regional workshops if you qualify.

Official Application Portal: https://learning.devbankng.com/

If you are serious about growing your business, improving your management skills, and positioning your enterprise for funding opportunities, the DBN Academy Entrepreneurship Training Programme – Cohort 2 is one of the most valuable free business development programmes currently available to Nigerian entrepreneurs.

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