Call for Applications: TBH, Sterling Bank Offer Up to ₦10 Million to Nigerian MSMEs
Nigerian entrepreneurs seeking funding to expand their businesses can now apply for the TBH MSME Pitch-A-Ton 1.0.
This is an initiative by The Business Hub (TBH) in partnership with Sterling Bank, offering eligible micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) access to a combined funding package of up to ₦10 million.
The programme is designed to help business owners overcome funding challenges, strengthen their operations and improve their capacity to grow through a combination of grant opportunities, structured loans and business development support.
Beyond financing, participating businesses will have access to mentorship, digital business tools, market opportunities and banking support over a 12-month period.
About the TBH MSME Pitch-A-Ton
The TBH MSME Pitch-A-Ton is a business growth initiative aimed at identifying promising Nigerian enterprises that require financial support and professional guidance to scale.
Through the partnership with Sterling Bank, the programme seeks to provide entrepreneurs with access to capital and resources that can help them improve productivity, expand their customer base and build sustainable businesses.
The advertised ₦10 million represents a combination of grant and loan support. It is not a guaranteed cash grant for every applicant, as funding will depend on the selection process and applicable conditions.
Benefits of the Programme
Successful applicants and selected businesses may benefit from:
- Funding of up to ₦10 million: Access to a combined grant and loan funding package to support business growth.
- Grant Opportunities: Five grand winners are expected to receive the programme’s top awards, subject to its selection and funding conditions.
- Discounted Business Loans: Up to 50 finalists may qualify for loans at discounted rates.
- Business Mentorship: Professional guidance to improve business management, operations and growth strategies.
- Digital Business Tools: Access to resources designed to improve business processes and operational efficiency.
- Market Access: Opportunities to connect with markets and potential business partners.
- Banking Support: Access to banking services through the programme’s partnership with Sterling Bank.
The initiative is structured to provide support beyond immediate financing, helping businesses develop the capacity to sustain long-term growth.
Eligibility Requirements
The programme is open to Nigerian micro, small and medium-sized enterprises with viable business models and clear growth potential.
Applicants are expected to:
- Operate an active business in Nigeria or be willing to register one, subject to the programme’s requirements.
- Have a clear business model and identifiable products or services.
- Demonstrate consistent business transactions and revenue activity.
- Show potential for business growth and expansion.
- Have a clear funding requirement of up to ₦10 million.
- Hold a Sterling Bank business account or follow the programme’s instructions for opening one.
Applicants should be able to explain their business operations, financial performance and how the requested funding will contribute to expansion.
Required Documents
Interested business owners should prepare relevant business and personal information before starting their applications.
These may include:
- Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) registration details and documents.
- Tax Identification Number (TIN).
- Valid identification for the business owner or promoter.
- Business bank statements, depending on the age and registration status of the business.
- Proof of business address.
- Information about business revenue and financial performance.
- Details of the funding amount requested and how it will be used.
Businesses registered for three years or more are expected to provide a 12-month business account statement. Applicants should consult the official portal for the full documentation requirements.
Selection Process
The selection process begins with an online application, during which business owners provide details about their enterprises, financial activities and funding needs.
Applications will be reviewed, and shortlisted entrepreneurs will be invited to pitch their businesses before a panel of industry experts and financial partners.
Successful businesses will proceed to the funding and onboarding stages, subject to the programme’s assessment and applicable terms.
According to the published programme information, five grand winners will receive combined grant and discounted loan support, while up to 50 finalists may qualify for discounted business loans.
Application Deadline
The programme’s official application information does not currently specify a closing date. Interested entrepreneurs are encouraged to visit the application portal for updates and submit their applications in line with the published requirements.
How to Apply
Interested and qualified Nigerian business owners can apply online through the official TBH MSME Pitch-A-Ton application portal.
Applicants should review the eligibility criteria, complete the online form with accurate personal and business information, provide the required documents and explain how the requested funding will be used to grow their businesses.
Application Portal: https://pitchathon.thebusinesshub.ng/#apply
Application Fee: Free.
The TBH MSME Pitch-A-Ton 1.0 presents an opportunity for Nigerian entrepreneurs to access business financing and professional support. However, applicants should carefully review the terms of any loan offered, including interest rates and repayment obligations, before accepting funding.
