The objective of creating the SME Village is to provide a convergence for small businesses who are the livewire of every economy.

As at January 31, 2024, there are 11,663 registered SMEs in Lagos State, with the agricultural and wholesale or retail sectors accounted for the largest proportions of SMEs operating in Nigeria. There were 39,654,385 micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) operating in Nigeria as of December 2020.

They play vital roles in the economy by contributing significantly to job creation as major employers, providing employment opportunities for a large portion of the workforce, drive innovations by introducing new products, services, and processes.

SMEs are agile and can quickly respond to changing market conditions and can be significant exporters, generating foreign exchange earnings for the country.

By creating the SME village, Lagos/Ogun Multi-Sector International Trade Fair aims to support the growth and development of SMEs in Nigeria and across Africa as they continuously drive innovations, economic growth and job creation.

Among other advantages, the SME village at Lagos/Ogun Multi-Sector International Trade Fair will provide:

1. Visibility: Provides a dedicated platform for SMEs to showcase their products and services, increasing their visibility among attendees.

2. Networking opportunities: Facilitates connections between SMEs, potential customers, partners, and industry experts.

3. Cost-effective: Offers affordable exhibition options for SMEs, reducing barriers to participation.

4. Targeted support: Allows for tailored support and resources, addressing specific challenges faced by SMEs.

5. Showcase innovation: Highlights innovative products and services from SMEs, driving interest and investment.

7. Diverse offerings: Showcases a diverse range of products and services, enhancing the overall trade fair experience.

8. Mentorship opportunities: Provides access to mentorship programs, guiding

SMEs in business development growth and access to funding.

9. Market access: Facilitates access to new markets, customers, and partners,

expanding business opportunities.

Participation fee: N50,000 for booth space

Sponsorship Opportunity: Banks to own the SME Village

Collaboration: Federal Ministry of Trade and Investment, SMEDAN, Ministry of

Commerce, Trade and Investment, Lagos State, Ministry of Commerce, Trade and

Investment, Ogun State.

Sponsorship benefits

1. Official Bank status: Handles all financial transactions about the fair.

2. Own the SME Village (e.g XYZ SME Village)

3. Gets a Complementary booth.

4. Live streaming of all activities and engagements with participants at the SME Village.

5. Total Branding of the SME Village

6. Sponsor’s corporate adverts to appear in the event magazine

7. Exclusive and Sole Marketing Right at the SME Village (Non competing Brands)

8. Acknowledgement as sponsor of all activities at the SME Village

9. SME desk officers to address visitors and participants at SME Village

10. Loud mention before, during and post events promotions.

11. Gets a Breakout Session during the trade fair

12. Get a full page advert and a special report in the event’s magazine

Sponsorship Fee: N10m