The Bank of Industry (BOI) has introduced a groundbreaking initiative, GLOW (Guaranteed Loans for Women), a ₦10 billion fund dedicated to empowering women entrepreneurs across Nigeria. The Guaranteed Loans for Women is a ₦10 billion empowerment fund created as a catalyst for change — a platform designed to help women entrepreneurs across Nigeria build resilient businesses, unlock their potential, and drive inclusive national growth.
The GLOW initiative addresses the persistent financial inclusion gap hindering women-led businesses, with a financing gap exceeding $42 billion in Nigeria. By providing easier access to funding, mentorship, and capacity-building programs, GLOW is poised to unlock new opportunities for female entrepreneurs, fostering sustainable economic growth and development
At its heart, GLOW represents a commitment to equity, innovation, and progress. It recognizes that when women thrive in business, communities prosper and nations advance.
Whether you are a visionary startup founder taking your first step or a seasoned entrepreneur ready to scale, GLOW offers the financial strength, mentorship, and strategic support needed to reach your next milestone — and beyond.
Details of the BOI GLOW Initiative
Women’s economic empowerment is not just a social goal — it is an economic imperative. Through GLOW, the Bank of Industry is championing gender-inclusive growth by providing women-owned and women-led enterprises with access to tailored financing and developmental resources.
Spearheaded by BOI’s Gender Business Desk, the initiative ensures that female entrepreneurs receive targeted support to overcome systemic barriers, bridge funding gaps, and create lasting socio-economic impact.
Vision of the Program
The vision is clear: to inspire a new generation of bold, innovative, and empowered Nigerian women who are redefining leadership in business.
GLOW aims to fuel the rise of bold, visionary, and empowered female entrepreneurs, recognizing the crucial role women play in Nigeria’s economic development. By promoting gender inclusion through targeted financial support and policy-driven action, BOI is bridging the gap for women-owned and women-led enterprises.
Loan Features and Benefits
The GLOW Scheme offers a comprehensive package of financial and developmental support designed for sustainability and success.
Loan Categories:
- Micro Enterprises: Up to ₦10 million
- Small & Medium Enterprises (SMEs): Up to ₦50 million
Key Loan Features:
- Tenor: Up to 5 years
- Interest Rate: 7% per annum (highly competitive and affordable)
- Repayment: Flexible terms aligned with each business’s structure and growth trajectory
Benefits of the Program
- Capacity-building programs and entrepreneurial training
- Access to expert mentorship and strategic advisory services
- Networking opportunities to foster partnerships and market expansion
- Business development support for long-term growth and sustainability
Additional Benefits
- Capacity-building workshops and entrepreneurship training
- Mentorship and advisory support from industry experts
- Access to networking and growth opportunities
- Business development support to enhance sustainability
Who Can Apply?
The GLOW Guaranteed Loan is designed for:
- Women-owned or women-led enterprises (with at least 50% female ownership or leadership)
- Gender-forward organizations that promote women’s inclusion and empowerment within their operations
This initiative is open to various sectors, including :
- Manufacturing and processing
- ICT
- Oil and gas value chains
- Creative industry
- Agribusiness
- Healthcare
- Education
- Renewable energy
- Tourism
Through GLOW, the Bank of Industry reaffirms its belief that empowering women is key to unlocking Nigeria’s full economic potential. This initiative is not just about access to capital — it’s about creating an ecosystem where women can innovate, lead, and succeed on their own terms.
How to Apply
Visit iprogrammes.boi.ng/glow to get access to register and apply.
For enquiries: Visit www.boi.ng or any of BOI’s state offices across the country