FCMB and IFC Launch Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women Programme in Nigeria

Strategic Insights -

First City Monument Bank (FCMB) has collaborated with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) to introduce the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women programme in Nigeria, aimed at boosting entrepreneurship and driving business expansion. The programme, which is part of a global initiative, provides practical business education, hands-on learning experiences, and guidance from leading business educators. Since its inception, the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women initiative has empowered over 200,000 entrepreneurs worldwide to scale their businesses and create lasting impact. In Nigeria, FCMB has made significant contributions to female entrepreneurship through its SheVentures initiative, providing zero-interest loans totaling up to N800 million and offering training and mentorship to thousands of women-led SMEs.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women programme is a global platform that equips entrepreneurs with practical business education, hands-on learning experiences, and guidance from leading business educators.
  • Since its inception, the programme has empowered over 200,000 entrepreneurs worldwide to scale their businesses and create lasting impact.
  • First City Monument Bank (FCMB) has contributed significantly to female entrepreneurship in Nigeria through its SheVentures initiative, providing zero-interest loans totaling up to N800 million and offering training and mentorship to thousands of women-led SMEs.
  • Yemisi Edun, Managing Director of FCMB, emphasized the importance of empowering women entrepreneurs in driving innovation, job creation, and economic growth.
  • George Ogbonnaya, FCMB's Divisional Head of Business Banking, highlighted the bank's commitment to SMEs and the promotion of gender equality within the entrepreneurial landscape.
  • The Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women Online education program is open to all SMEs, granting access to all ten courses and eligibility to join the 10,000 Women alumni community.

Statistics:

  • Over 200,000 entrepreneurs worldwide have been empowered by the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women initiative since its inception.
  • FCMB's SheVentures initiative has provided zero-interest loans totaling up to N800 million to women-led SMEs in Nigeria.
  • The 10,000 Women Online education program has ten courses available to all SMEs.
  • Applications for the 10,000 Women Online program opened on August 1, 2025, and will close on August 31, 2025.
  • The program is designed for both start-ups and existing female entrepreneurs across Nigeria.

Sources:

  • FCMB press release
  • International Finance Corporation (IFC) press release
  • Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women initiative website
  • FCMB's SheVentures initiative website