Sterling Bank & DBN Launch ₦20bn Fund for Women Entrepreneurs
Sterling Bank, in partnership with the Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN), has officially opened applications for its ₦20 billion loan scheme targeted at women entrepreneurs. The initiative invites eligible women business owners across various sectors to apply for funding support aimed at boosting their enterprises.
Through this program, Sterling Bank and DBN seek to enhance women’s access to finance, promote business growth, and drive inclusive economic development in Nigeria.
Sterling Bank in partnership with the Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN) is opening up a 20 billion naira investment facility to women-led entrepreneurs across Nigeria. The scheme is designed to address the financial barriers that have limited women’s ability to scale up their businesses.
Through the scheme, any female entrepreneur will have access to up to ₦75 million in affordable, growth focused loans designed to boost their impact in sectors such as health, education, agriculture, fashion, and food and beverage.
Sterling Bank & DBN Loan Highlights
| Loan Portal Opens | October 24, 2025 |
| Loan Provider | Sterling Bank & Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN) |
| Loan Eligibility | Women owned businesses |
| Loan Fund Size | ₦20 Billion |
| Loan Min-Max |
1. First time borrowers:Up to ₦15 million (Unsecured) Up to ₦35 million (Secured) 2. Returning customers:Up to ₦40 million (Unsecured) Up to ₦75 million (Secured) |
| Loan Repayment | Flexible 3 year repayment |
| Loan Eligible Sectors | Agriculture, Education, Fashion, Food & Beverage and Healthcare, Manufacturing, |
| Loan Targets Group | Women owned and women led businesses across Nigeria |
| Loan Country | Nigeria |
| Loan Portal Close | Not Specified |
Sterling Bank & DBN Loan Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for this funding program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a female entrepreneur or own a business where women hold the majority ownership.
- Manage a legally registered business based and operating across Nigeria.
- Operate within one of the approved sectors, including Healthcare, Education, Agriculture, Fashion, or Food & Beverage.
Benefits of Sterling Bank & DBN Loan
1. Get business funding of up to ₦75 million at affordable rates to grow or scale your enterprise.
2. Enjoy convenient repayment options spread over a period of up to three years.
3. Take advantage of a special grant initiative created exclusively for women entrepreneurs.
4. Gain access to support from two reputable financial institutions dedicated to women’s economic empowerment.
5. Build your business capacity to expand, innovate, and achieve long-term sustainability.
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Sterling Bank & DBN Loan Method of Application
To apply for the loan, you need, Visit any Sterling Bank branch, your Relationship Manager, or apply via the Sterling Portal.
Simple steps to apply via Sterling Bank Website:
- Visit the Sterling loan Portal and click on Apply Now.
- Complete the application form and Click on Submit.
- Wait for the banks to review your application, if your loan application approved you will be contacted via email or SMS.
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