Edo State Digital Business Platform to Drive Innovation and Growth
csrreporters 
Stakeholders gather in Benin City to launch Edo Business Connect, a socially impactful digital platform empowering Edo entrepreneurs
Benin City, Nigeria – Stakeholders from various sectors gathered in Benin City for a high-level strategic session in anticipation of the official launch of Edo Business Connect, Nigeria’s first fully digital business platform. More than just a technological innovation, this initiative marks a significant advancement in corporate social responsibility (CSR), inclusive growth, and social impact in Nigeria.
Launched by the Edo State Investment Promotion Office (ESIPO) in collaboration with GIZ and the Edo State Development and Investment Digital Agency (EDODiDA), Edo Business Connect aims to empower local entrepreneurs, promote economic inclusion, and facilitate streamlined access to business services for thousands of Nigerians.
“This is our bold step toward digital transformation and inclusive growth,” stated Mr. Amen Odigie, Managing Director of ESIPO. “We are building a future where business registration, support services, and economic opportunities are accessible and transparent for all.”
This initiative not only drives innovation but also champions economic justice, enabling every entrepreneur, regardless of their literacy level or social standing, to participate in Nigeria’s rapidly evolving digital economy.
Dr. (Mrs.) Ewe Rita Samuropa of EDODiDA emphasised that the platform is designed with social inclusion at its core. “Whether you’re a literate startup founder or a semi-literate market trader, Edo Business Connect will serve you. The platform includes a business directory, access to funding opportunities, and a responsive feedback mechanism to ensure that challenges are addressed promptly,” she explained.
By prioritising ease of use and accessibility, Edo Business Connect transforms from a mere portal into a lifeline for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) throughout Edo State.
The strategic session brought together leaders from government, civil society, and private sector organisations, highlighting the platform’s broad appeal and far-reaching potential.
Set to launch officially before August, Edo Business Connect aligns with the broader United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—particularly those focused on decent work and economic growth, reduced inequalities, and industry, innovation, and infrastructure.
This digital initiative will bridge the gap for marginalised entrepreneurs, equipping them with the tools they need to succeed and fostering a sustainable ecosystem where businesses of all sizes can thrive and grow responsibly.
Why Edo Business Connect Matters:
- Boosts economic inclusion in Nigeria
- Empowers MSMEs with digital tools
- Promotes CSR and sustainable development
- Bridges literacy gaps in entrepreneurship
- Strengthens public-private partnerships for growth
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