IFC Partners FCMB To Empower Nigerian Women Entrepreneurs

First City Monument Bank (FCMB) has partnered with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) to roll out the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women course to promote entrepreneurship.

Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women is a global initiative that helps foster economic growth by providing entrepreneurs worldwide with practical education, interactive activities, and instruction by educators from top business schools, reaching over 200,000 entrepreneurs.

Built by Goldman Sachs and delivered through the University of Leeds, the 10,000 Women Online education programme is open to all small and medium enterprises(SMEs). It grants access to all ten courses and eligibility to join the 10,000 Women alumni community.

Building on a legacy of empowering women entrepreneurs, FCMB, through its SheVentures initiative. Has significantly contributed to the empowerment of female entrepreneurs in Nigeria over the last five years. The programme has provided zero-interest loans totalling N800 million and offered training and mentorship to thousands of women-led SMEs.

Speaking on this development, the managing director of First City Monument Bank(FCMB), Yemisi Edun, said: “Empowering women entrepreneurs is essential to driving innovation, job creation, and economic growth. This program will enhance their skills and unlock new business opportunities, aligning with our purpose of fostering inclusive and sustainable growth.”

FCMB’s divisional head of Business Banking, George Ogbonnaya, emphasised the bank’s commitment to SMEs, stating that ‘the partnership promotes gender equality within the entrepreneurial landscape and will foster sustainable growth for all.’

Applications for the 10,000 Women Online programme, which is open to start-ups and existing female entrepreneurs across Nigeria, opened on August 1, 2025, and will close on August 31, 2025.