Union Bank of Nigeria, through its dedicated women-focused proposition alpher, has partnered with Zuri Circle Network (ZCN) to support 98 female entrepreneurs under the Fearless Female Founders (FFF) 2.0 Accelerator Programme.
The initiative aims to close critical gaps for women-led businesses by improving access to capital, business knowledge, mentorship and opportunities for sustainable growth.
The programme received 2,810 applications from women entrepreneurs across Nigeria. After a rigorous screening process that included business verification and compliance checks, 98 founders were selected.
As part of its commitment, Union Bank awarded grants to five women-led businesses that emerged as winners during the final pitch presentation.
The Fearless Female Founders 2.0 Accelerator was designed to identify, support and strengthen promising women-led enterprises through structured capacity building, mentorship, accountability and access to funding.
Selected participants underwent detailed assessment of business registration, operational viability and financial record-keeping to ensure readiness for growth and investment.
The final cohort showcased the diversity of Nigeria’s entrepreneurial landscape, spanning agriculture, fashion, food production, technology, manufacturing, retail and professional services.
Throughout the programme, participants received practical support focused on strengthening operations, improving financial management, boosting competitiveness and preparing their businesses for expansion.
Vivian Imoh-Itah, Head of Retail Banking at Union Bank of Nigeria, reaffirmed the bank’s dedication to women’s success.
“Through alpher, Union Bank remains committed to creating meaningful opportunities for women to thrive personally, professionally, and financially. Our partnership with Zuri Circle Network on the Fearless Female Founders 2.0 Accelerator reflects our deliberate focus on supporting women entrepreneurs with the tools, networks, knowledge, and financial access they require to build sustainable businesses,” she said.
“By investing in enterprises owned by women, we are not only empowering individual founders but also contributing to economic growth, job creation, and greater financial inclusion across Nigeria,” she added.
The programme addresses a persistent challenge: many women entrepreneurs still struggle to access formal financing and expansion opportunities despite their significant contribution to the economy.
Through the alpher–Zuri Circle Network partnership, the Fearless Female Founders 2.0 Accelerator connects women-led businesses with the funding, knowledge, networks and resources needed to become investment-ready and achieve lasting growth.
The collaboration reinforces Union Bank’s broader commitment to empowering women via innovative financial solutions, strategic partnerships, capacity-building programmes and enhanced access to financial services.
Since its launch, alpher has consistently championed initiatives that support women at various stages of their personal and entrepreneurial journeys, promoting greater financial independence and business success.
Through programmes such as the Fearless Female Founders Accelerator, Union Bank continues to advance financial inclusion and contribute to the growth of Nigeria’s economy.