The Africa SME Assembly 2025 has concluded in Lagos, bringing together more than 1,200 entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and corporate leaders from across the continent under the theme ‘Emerging Technology for Africa’s Business Growth.’
The disclosure was made in a statement on Tuesday, noting that the three-day event, held from August 26 to 28, has cemented its place as Africa’s premier platform for small and medium-sized enterprises. It not only facilitated high-level dialogue but also delivered tangible opportunities for financing, partnerships, and innovation.
According to the organisers, the Assembly featured keynote addresses, panel discussions, trade exhibitions, workshops, and a live pitching competition. One of the highlights was the SME Pitching Competition, where 100 enterprises were shortlisted and 10 finalists pitched their businesses to investors and partners.
The initiative spotlighted high-growth businesses and opened access to mentorship and funding opportunities.
The event also marked the launch of the Post-Event Accelerator and Deal Room, an eight-week programme backed by Liquify, Paystack, Kenneth Igiri LLC, Leyyow, and other partners. The accelerator will provide 150 selected SMEs with resources, mentorship, and deal-making opportunities worth N25m.
Strategic partnerships were central to ASA 2025. Paystack powered digital payments and supported the pitching prize pool, while Liquify Africa unlocked export financing opportunities for SMEs. Kenneth Igiri LLC contributed thought leadership on SME transformation, Leyyow championed youth-led innovation, and AwaDoc showcased health-tech solutions for business sustainability. In addition, the Association of Nigerian Exporters, Tradelenda, and Bizmedix mobilised SME communities and enabled real-time business connections.
Another milestone was the launch of a N1.5m scholarship programme, which provided 200 bold founders with fully sponsored access to the Assembly. The organisers said this initiative was designed to reduce barriers for entrepreneurs who otherwise would not have been able to participate, ensuring inclusivity in building Africa’s next generation of business leaders.
Convener of the Africa SME Assembly, Mr. Treasure David, said the platform is now more than an event but a movement shaping the future of African business.
“SMEs are the backbone of Africa’s economy, and ASA 2025 has proven that when we bring together the right technology, financing, and partnerships, we can unlock their true potential,” he said. “Our work continues with the Post-Event Accelerator, where we will walk side by side with SMEs to scale their businesses and access global markets.”
Looking ahead, the organisers said the Africa SME Assembly will expand its reach in 2026 by engaging more entrepreneurs, scaling partnerships, and strengthening its role as Africa’s launchpad for SME innovation, financing, and growth.
