MfB unveils match fund for women entrepreneurs

Women entrepreneurs in Nigeria now have improved access to essential business tools with the launch of the Happy Woman Match Fund. This new financing scheme, introduced by Happy Woman Solutions Limited in partnership with Mayden Microfinance Bank, directly addresses the significant challenge of accessing capital for high-value business equipment faced by women-led micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

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Through the Happy Woman Match Fund, we are providing a practical pathway for women entrepreneurs to acquire the productive assets they need today while cultivating healthy financial habits that will strengthen their businesses for the future.

Kunle Erinle, CEO of Happy Woman Solutions Limited, described the fund as a crucial step in removing financial obstacles that hinder women entrepreneurs from scaling their businesses. "Through the Happy Woman Match Fund, we are providing a practical pathway for women entrepreneurs to acquire the productive assets they need today while cultivating healthy financial habits that will strengthen their businesses for the future," he stated. Erinle noted that while many women possess the necessary skills, equipment deficits often bottleneck their growth.

The matching structure requires participating business owners to save 50 percent of the total cost of the desired asset. Mayden Microfinance Bank then provides loan financing for the remaining 50 percent. This framework allows entrepreneurs to acquire critical physical assets immediately, rather than waiting to save the full amount. The initiative supports enterprises in sectors like garment making, catering, personal care, and commercial printing.

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The Happy Woman Match Fund is more than a financing programme; it is an investment in the dreams, resilience, and economic potential of women entrepreneurs.

Foluke Alakija, Founder and Managing Director of Mayden Microfinance Bank, reaffirmed the bank's dedication to financial inclusion through innovative funding models. "We remain committed to advancing financial inclusion by supporting innovative financing solutions that expand access to capital for underserved entrepreneurs, particularly women‑led businesses," she said. The pioneer phase will focus on eligible members of the Happy Woman community in Lagos and Abuja.

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We remain committed to advancing financial inclusion by supporting innovative financing solutions that expand access to capital for underserved entrepreneurs, particularly women‑led businesses.