Africa SME Assembly 2025 Honours Over 1,200 Entrepreneurs, Igniting Continental Business Transformation

Africa SME Assembly 2025 has concluded with resounding success in Lagos, celebrating the passion, innovation, and resilience of over 1,200 entrepreneurs from across the continent. Held under the inspiring theme ‘Emerging Technology for Africa’s Business Growth’, the three day gathering (August 26–28) marked a significant milestone in the advancement of Africa’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the organisers hailed the Assembly as Africa’s foremost platform for empowering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Beyond thought-provoking dialogue, the event delivered real opportunities from financing and strategic partnerships to mentorship and global exposure.

One of the most notable highlights was the SME Pitching Competition, where 100 promising enterprises were shortlisted, and 10 outstanding finalists showcased their ventures to a panel of top-tier investors and industry leaders. This provided not only recognition but a launchpad for ambitious founders to scale their dreams.

In honour of inclusive progress, the Assembly launched a ₦1.5 million scholarship programme, granting 200 underrepresented yet bold founders fully sponsored access to the event. This groundbreaking initiative was designed to remove financial barriers and ensure that no visionary is left behind in the pursuit of business excellence.

The event also ushered in the Post-Event Accelerator and Deal Room, a transformative eight-week programme for 150 selected SMEs. Supported by Liquify, Paystack, Kenneth Igiri LLC, Leyyow, and others, the accelerator will provide participants with access to resources, mentorship, and potential investments valued at ₦25 million.

Strategic partners played a pivotal role in making the event impactful:

Paystack enhanced digital payments and funded the pitching prize pool.

Liquify Africa opened up export financing for local SMEs.

Kenneth Igiri LLC brought thought leadership for SME transformation.

Leyyow elevated youth-driven innovation.

AwaDoc introduced health tech solutions for sustainable business growth.

The Association of Nigerian Exporters, Tradelenda, and Bizmedix connected SME communities in real time, amplifying their reach and impact.

Convener Mr. Treasure David described the Assembly as more than an event, it is a movement shaping Africa’s business future.

“SMEs are the backbone of Africa’s economy,” he said. “ASA 2025 has proven that with the right technology, financing, and partnerships, we can unlock their true potential. Our journey continues as we walk with these entrepreneurs toward global markets and greater prosperity.”

Looking ahead, the organisers revealed that ASA 2026 will scale its reach, deepen strategic alliances, and continue to honour the determination and brilliance of African entrepreneurs by being a launchpad for innovation, investment, and growth.

This year’s Assembly stands not just as a conference but as a historic celebration of African enterprise where dreams met opportunity, and bold ideas were honoured with action.