OneWoman Initiative Empowers 2,500 In Business

OneWoman initiative has empowered 2,500 female entrepreneurs by giving them free access to the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women online program.

The OneWoman initiative, which is Sterling Bank’s project in partnership with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), has equipped female entrepreneurs with the skills and resources to scale their businesses and drive growth.

The comprehensive curriculum, delivered through the University of Leeds, equips business owners with practical tools for their business growth. It covers essential areas including financial management, marketing, leadership, and expansion strategies. The program stands out for its emphasis on real-time application, allowing entrepreneurs to implement their learning for tangible business improvements immediately.

Speaking on the initiative, John Obichie, Group Head, Consumer Finance at Sterling Bank, emphasised its impact: “Female entrepreneurs have been at the heart of shaping the Nigerian economy of the future, and Sterling Bank is committed to accelerating their success. Through this initiative, we will equip 2,500 women with world-class business education, strategies, and networks they will need to scale. So, we are supporting businesses and creating a pathway for growth and global scale to compete.”

Obichie added that the OneWoman initiative highlights Sterling Bank’s steadfast commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in Nigeria’s business sector. “By removing traditional barriers to financial education and capital access, we’re enabling female entrepreneurs to transform their communities while building sustainable enterprises that can compete on both local and international stages,” he emphasised.

This initiative represents a key component of Sterling Bank’s broader mission to support business growth and financial inclusion. This commitment recently earned Sterling the Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN) Service Ambassadors Award for Highest Impact on Women MSMEs.

The 10,000 Women program has empowered thousands of female entrepreneurs globally, delivering outstanding results. Now, through the partnership with IFC, Nigerian women entrepreneurs can access this opportunity at no cost.