Ecobank Nigeria has launched an upgraded version of its gender financing initiative, “Ellevate” by Ecobank, as part of activities marking the 2026 International Women’s Day (IWD).
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the bank said the enhanced programme underscores its long-term commitment to supporting women-led enterprises in Nigeria and across Ecobank’s pan-African network.
Initially introduced in July 2021 to improve access to finance for women-owned, women-led and women-focused small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within its commercial banking segment, the revamped “Ellevate” initiative now adopts a broader and more inclusive structure.
The upgraded framework spans all business segments, transforming “Ellevate” into a comprehensive ecosystem aimed at addressing structural financing and growth barriers faced by women entrepreneurs.
Managing Director of Ecobank Nigeria, Bolaji Lawal, said the enhanced programme strengthens the bank’s ambition to be the financial partner of choice for women-led businesses.
“Since its inauguration in Nigeria in July 2021, ‘Ellevate’ has delivered meaningful impact for SMEs and women-led businesses. This next phase deepens our value proposition and reinforces our resolve to remain the preferred financial partner for women entrepreneurs,” he said.
Lawal explained that the expanded structure provides improved access to credit on competitive terms, including more flexible collateral requirements to ease traditional financing constraints.
Beyond lending, the programme integrates digital payment, collections and cash management solutions to improve operational efficiency and scalability.
A key component of the upgrade is structured market access. Through the bank’s “MyTradeHub” online matchmaking platform and e-commerce enablement tools, women entrepreneurs will be better positioned to expand cross-border trade and participate in regional value chains across Africa.
The initiative also features non-financial support, including targeted training programmes, leadership development sessions and knowledge-sharing platforms to strengthen managerial capacity and long-term sustainability.
In addition, participants will have access to customised wealth management advisory services, integrated insurance solutions and a loyalty framework offering commercial incentives through select retail and lifestyle partnerships.
Lawal noted that the programme aligns with Ecobank’s broader objective of driving inclusive growth by empowering women as key contributors to economic development.
“African businesswomen deserve world-class banking solutions that drive turnover, profitability and sustainable growth. Our approach goes beyond financial inclusion to building an enabling ecosystem that enhances competitiveness and long-term resilience,” he added.