Deadline: 2025
The Sterling Bank ₦20 Billion Women in Business Loan Scheme (WDBN) is a bold initiative designed to empower women-owned and women-led businesses across Nigeria. In partnership with the Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN), Sterling Bank PLC is making access to finance easier, fairer, and more inclusive for women entrepreneurs determined to scale their businesses and create lasting impact.
Through this ₦20 billion fund, women entrepreneurs can access up to ₦75 million in affordable loans with flexible repayment terms, helping them expand operations, increase productivity, and contribute to national economic growth.
About the Sterling Bank ₦20 Billion Women in Business Loan Scheme (WDBN)
This unique scheme is part of Sterling Bank’s ongoing commitment to supporting women in business, closing gender gaps in financial access, and building sustainable enterprises. The programme provides structured funding opportunities specifically tailored to meet the growth needs of women-led enterprises operating in high-impact sectors of the Nigerian economy.
The Sterling Bank ₦20 Billion Women in Business Loan Scheme (WDBN) offers an inclusive financing platform where eligible women entrepreneurs can apply for either secured or unsecured loans, depending on their experience and business size.
Key Features of the Loan Scheme
- Total Fund Size: ₦20 billion
- Maximum Loan Amount: Up to ₦75 million (secured loans available to returning customers)
- Unsecured Option: First-time borrowers can access up to ₦15 million without collateral
- Repayment Period: Up to 3 years
- Interest Rate: 28% per annum
- Application Access: Open to both new and existing Sterling Bank customers
- Sectors Covered:
- Export
- Health
- Education
- Agriculture
- Fashion & Lifestyle
- Manufacturing
- Food & Beverage
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Sterling Bank ₦20 Billion Women in Business Loan Scheme (WDBN), businesses must meet the following requirements:
- Ownership Structure:
- At least 51% owned by a woman or group of women, or
- At least 20% owned by a woman with one woman in a key leadership role (CEO/MD/VP), or
- At least 30% of board representation by women (where applicable).
- Business Registration:
- The enterprise must be registered and operating in Nigeria.
- Sector Eligibility:
- Business operations must fall within any of the eligible sectors listed above.
- Customer Status:
- You don’t have to be an existing Sterling Bank customer to apply, but approved applicants will be required to open a Sterling Bank business account.
Why This Initiative Matters
The Sterling Bank ₦20 Billion Women in Business Loan Scheme (WDBN) bridges a crucial financing gap for women entrepreneurs who have the vision and capacity to build thriving businesses but face barriers in accessing capital.
This initiative promotes gender inclusivity and drives Nigeria’s broader economic development by ensuring that more women gain access to growth-oriented funding. By offering competitive loan terms and sector-focused financing, the scheme empowers women to:
- Expand their business capacity
- Create employment opportunities
- Increase export potential
- Innovate across industries
- Strengthen community impact
Application Process
Interested applicants are encouraged to review all eligibility requirements and ensure their businesses meet the ownership and sector criteria before applying.
To begin your application, you’ll need to provide standard business documentation and demonstrate your business’s growth potential. Once approved, Sterling Bank will guide you through account setup, disbursement, and repayment planning.
Important Considerations for Entrepreneurs and Mentors
For professionals working with women-led enterprises or entrepreneurship mentoring programmes, this funding scheme presents an opportunity to connect participants with scalable finance options.
However, since this is a loan scheme (not a grant), applicants should assess repayment capacity, build sound financial records, and seek expert support in preparing their loan proposals.
If your project or business involves women in health, education, agriculture, or fashion and manufacturing, this scheme could serve as a powerful lever for growth and sustainability.
Conclusion
The Sterling Bank ₦20 Billion Women in Business Loan Scheme (WDBN) stands as a landmark opportunity for women entrepreneurs across Nigeria to secure the funding they need to grow their businesses and create impact. By supporting women-owned enterprises with fair and flexible financing, Sterling Bank continues to champion inclusive economic development and gender equality in business.
Useful Links
👉 Apply for the Sterling Bank ₦20 Billion Women in Business Loan Scheme (WDBN)
👉 Read more about the WDBN Programme
💼 Need help with your proposal or business loan documentation?
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review.
