For nearly two decades, the Enterprise Development Centre (EDC) has convened Nigeria’s business community for its annual SME conference. Now, that platform is going continental.
The EDC of Pan-Atlantic University has relaunched the event as the Pan-African SME Conference, with the 20th edition scheduled for November 16 and 17, 2026, in Lagos.
More than 500 delegates from over 10 African countries are expected to attend.
The conference is organised in collaboration with MTN Foundation Nigeria and in partnership with the African Network of Entrepreneurs (ANDE), the Global Entrepreneurship Network (GEN) Nigeria, Sterling Bank and others .
The theme is “Beyond Ecosystems: Building Platforms That Help African Businesses Thrive.”
Organisers say the expansion reflects a recognition that the barriers facing small businesses extend beyond national borders.
Why the Expansion Matters
Nnenna Ugwu, head of Alumni Engagement at EDC, explained the reasoning behind the move.
“Twenty years ago, we set out to create a space where Nigerian entrepreneurs could learn, connect and be heard. That space has grown, and so have the businesses in it. But the challenges our SMEs face do not stop at our borders, and neither should the solutions,” she said .
The two-day event will feature keynote addresses and panels covering access to finance, intra-African trade, talent development and digital transformation.
A Pan-African SME Expo will allow businesses to showcase products to buyers and investors, while Investor Connect sessions will match enterprises with aligned funders.
Practical Solutions for Real Problems
Olawale Anifowose, director of Programmes and Partnerships at EDC, said the 20th edition reflects the centre’s consistency.
He noted that the conference’s transition into a pan-African platform would extend its commitment to supporting SME growth to a wider audience.
Sterling Bank, one of the supporting institutions, sees the conference as aligned with its efforts to improve access to finance.
The bank recently announced a $200 million SME credit backstop initiative with Cascador to address lending risks.
Donatus Okpako, chief marketing officer of Sterling Bank, said financial institutions must work with other stakeholders to address structural barriers preventing businesses from accessing financing and markets.
The conference will take place at the MTN Building in Ikoyi, Lagos, as part of Global Entrepreneurship Week Nigeria 2026.
Participation is available both in person and online, with registration open through the conference website.
