Sundry Markets Limited has hosted its MSME fair, Retail Ready 1.0, aimed at empowering and supporting micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) operating within Nigeria’s retail value chain, with business grants worth ₦10 million awarded to outstanding participants.
The event brought together key stakeholders across the country’s business ecosystem, including the Bank of Industry (BoI), as part of efforts to strengthen enterprise development and improve access to funding and market opportunities.
Designed as a collaborative platform, the fair focused on preparing MSMEs for sustainable growth, improved market access and long-term resilience amid Nigeria’s challenging economic environment.
Participants included major institutions such as the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria, Access Bank, Standards Organisation of Nigeria, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control and United Bank for Africa, among others.
Through keynote sessions and panel discussions, representatives from these organisations shared practical insights on funding opportunities, regulatory compliance, quality assurance, distribution readiness and strategies for scaling retail-focused businesses despite prevailing macroeconomic pressures. Speakers also drew from their entrepreneurial journeys, offering real-world perspectives on navigating business volatility in Nigeria.
A major highlight of the event was the Retail Ready Pitch Competition, which showcased innovative and high-potential MSMEs. Following a rigorous evaluation process, three businesses emerged as winners: Zelden Foods Limited received a ₦5 million grant, Tahila Foods and Beverages Limited was awarded ₦3 million, while Delectable Naturals secured ₦2 million.
Speaking on the initiative, Head of Marketing at Sundry Markets, Emmanuel Patrick Isangediok, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s MSME ecosystem. He noted that beyond providing market access, the company remains focused on capacity building and direct financial support to help small businesses scale sustainably.
