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Access Bank will host its maiden MSME Conference bringing together entrepreneurs, policymakers and technology leaders to explore how artificial intelligence can help small businesses improve productivity.
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The bank will also unveil the Access SME App, a new digital platform that integrates business management and financial tools into a single solution.
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The initiative comes at a time when many Nigerian SMEs continue to grapple with rising operating costs, limited access to finance and low digital adoption.
July 21, (THEWILL) — Nigeria’s small businesses are operating under some of their toughest conditions in recent years, grappling with high operating costs, expensive borrowing, weak consumer demand and increasing pressure to embrace digital technologies.
Against this backdrop, Access Bank Plc is positioning artificial intelligence and digital innovation as part of the solution, announcing plans to host its maiden MSME Conference while unveiling a new business management platform aimed at helping entrepreneurs scale more efficiently.
Access Bank Bets on AI for SME Growth
Access Bank said the conference, scheduled for July 24, 2026, at its Head Office in Victoria Island, Lagos, will be held under the theme, “AI for SMEs: Scaling Through Digital Tools.”
The event will bring together entrepreneurs, policymakers, business leaders and technology experts to explore how artificial intelligence can improve productivity, strengthen competitiveness and help Nigerian businesses grow sustainably.
Representatives from the Presidency on Entrepreneurship Development, Mastercard, Huawei, World Trade Center Lagos, Dataleum, Aktivate Labs and other organisations are expected to participate through keynote speeches, panel discussions and interactive sessions.
New App Targets Everyday Business Challenges
A major highlight of the conference will be the launch of the Access SME App, a digital platform developed to integrate business management and financial tools into a single application.
According to Access Bank, the platform is designed to simplify day-to-day business operations, improve efficiency and help entrepreneurs manage and expand their businesses more effectively.
Speaking ahead of the event, Group Head, SME Banking, Access Bank Plc, Abiodun Olubitan, said the bank remains committed to helping entrepreneurs overcome barriers to growth.
Why This Matters for Nigerian SMEs
MSMEs remain one of the largest contributors to Nigeria’s economy, accounting for millions of jobs while supporting innovation across agriculture, manufacturing, trade and services.
However, many businesses continue to struggle with limited access to finance, rising operating costs and relatively low levels of digital adoption, challenges that have become more pronounced in the current economic environment.
Access Bank said the conference and the new SME App are intended to equip entrepreneurs with practical knowledge, digital tools and strategic partnerships that can help improve productivity and unlock new growth opportunities.
Building a Stronger Small Business Ecosystem
The bank noted that interested entrepreneurs can register to participate in the conference through its online registration portal.
Access Bank said it has continued to invest heavily in SME financing, capacity-building programmes and digital innovation through partnerships with local and international development finance institutions.
According to the bank, these initiatives form part of its broader commitment to building a stronger, more resilient and inclusive small business ecosystem capable of creating jobs and driving long-term economic growth.
Ogochukwu Onwaeze is a writer specializing in business and economic journalism. At THEWILL News Media, she translates market trends, financial developments, and policy shifts into clear and engaging stories.
