The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy (FMCIDE) has partnered with the Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN) to launch the 3MTT–DBN Annual Entrepreneurship Training Programme, a transformative initiative designed to empower digital entrepreneurs and technical talent across Nigeria.
This ambitious programme provides business training, mentorship, and access to ₦100 million in grants to support innovation-driven startups and small businesses. It is directly aligned with Nigeria’s digital inclusion agenda and the national goal of achieving 95% digital literacy by 2030.
Strategic Collaboration Between FMCIDE and DBN
This partnership merges the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme’s robust tech ecosystem with DBN’s enterprise development expertise to create a hybrid learning experience that goes beyond technical skills.
According to Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy: “This partnership is a practical demonstration of our commitment to creating a digitally inclusive economy where innovation, entrepreneurship, and access to finance intersect to accelerate national development.”
Programme Structure and Key Benefits
Target Participants
- 3MTT Fellows
- Members of Advanced Learning Clusters (ALCs)
- Digital and tech-enabled entrepreneurs from the wider public
Training Format
- A hybrid model combining online learning via DBN’s BizAid platform with in-person workshops in 12 regional centres nationwide
- Courses are sector-neutral and designed to deliver practical, business-critical knowledge
Core Modules Include:
- Credit Management and Access to Finance
- Sustainability for Small Businesses
- Export Readiness
- Business Branding and Communications
- Generative AI for MSMEs
Incentives and Support
- ₦100 million competitive grant pool for top-performing participants
- Direct connection to DBN’s network of Participating Financial Institutions (PFIs) for business funding
- Business support and networking opportunities
Massive Training Opportunity for 100,000 Entrepreneurs
The programme will train 100,000 participants in two cohorts between July and September 2025. It aims to upskill entrepreneurs and bridge the gap between technical talent and viable, scalable business models.
This initiative represents a major step forward in supporting MSMEs in Nigeria, providing not only funding but also the skills required for long-term sustainability.
Driving Digital Innovation and Inclusive Growth
With digital entrepreneurship increasingly seen as a driver of economic growth and employment, the 3MTT–DBN programme supports:
- Tech-enabled business development
- Financial inclusion
- Digital upskilling and re-skilling
- Job creation and youth empowerment
Dr. Tony Okpanachi, MD/CEO of DBN, emphasised: “We are committed to creating a sustainable ecosystem for MSMEs by providing not just access to finance, but also the knowledge and tools that ensure long-term growth and resilience.”
Registration Now Open
Entrepreneurs and 3MTT beneficiaries are encouraged to apply for the first training cohort starting July 2025.
To register, visit the official 3MTT–DBN Annual Entrepreneurship Programme portal.
