In this generation, women remain one of the most untapped yet powerful drivers of sustainable development. Despite their potential, many women continue to find it difficult to access business opportunities and financial grants. This is why a program like AccelerateHer is both timely and transformational.
Why Women Must Be Empowered in Business and Leadership
Empowering women in business and leadership is a strategic move that holds many benefits to the society and economy of a nation. Studies show that when women are economically empowered, they reinvest 90% of their income into their families and communities and this creates a ripple effect of positive outcomes in education, healthcare, finance and overall well-being. Yet, across Africa and other parts of the world, women entrepreneurs are often confined to micro-businesses, due to inability to access the much needed finance and support systems.
In leadership, the numbers are not so good as well. Women are underrepresented in decision-making spaces even though they bring fresh perspectives and a strong sense of purpose to the table.
Empowering women is not about giving them power they don’t have. Women already have the power within them. We just have to unlock it and amplify it.
How AccelerateHer Is Shifting the Narrative
In March 2025, Women Impacting Nigeria (WIN) took bold steps to close the gap through the AccelerateHer Outreach in Bariga, Lagos. The outreach empowered 50 women entrepreneurs with both the training and funding they need to support their individual business ventures.
Here’s how the initiative made impact:
- Equipping with Knowledge
Through targeted financial literacy workshop sessions, women learned how to manage finances and reach new markets with their products. - Because knowledge is power, the event gave women the power to make informed decisions.
- Providing Capital Support
Each participant received a ₦50,000 micro-grant to support or scale her business. For women who often struggle to access formal loans or business funding, this capital injection was both a lifeline and a launchpad. - Creating a Community of Possibility
Beyond the training and funding, AccelerateHer gave women the gift of belonging and a network of peers and partners who believe in their dreams and are willing to walk with them.
How to Truly Empower Women
AccelerateHer is a powerful blueprint, but it’s just the beginning. To truly empower women in business and leadership, we must:
- Invest in Education and Capacity Building
Training in leadership, technology, financial literacy, and communication skills builds the confidence and competence women need to lead effectively. - Increase Access to Funding
Financial solutions such as models grants and low-interest loans, should be offered to support women-led businesses at all levels. - Ensure Representation in Decision-Making Spaces
Organizations and governments must commit to gender diversity by promoting women into leadership positions and enabling inclusive policies. - Foster Safe and Supportive Ecosystems
Creating mentorship opportunities and safe spaces helps women navigate challenges and grow together. - Change the Narrative
We must tell more stories of strong, successful women leading in business and beyond. This is because representation inspires aspiration.
The Road Ahead
Empowering women promotes equity, not just charity. Programs like AccelerateHer remind us that with the right tools and support, women can build businesses and have economic power.
At Women Impacting Nigeria, we remain committed to creating a future where every woman has the opportunity to succeed.