By Epiphanus Obia
The Enugu State Government has launched the Enugu TradEX Programme, a new initiative aimed at helping 1,000 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the state adopt digital commerce and access cross-border trade opportunities.
The programme, implemented by the Enugu MSME and Startup Agency in partnership with Afreximbank’s TradEX and Patiti, will provide selected businesses with digital storefronts, business registration support, digital trade training and access to online payment solutions at no cost.
According to the organisers, the initiative is designed to make participating businesses digitally enabled, market-ready and globally competitive, while preparing them to take advantage of opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Beneficiaries will receive professionally branded digital storefronts, support for Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) business registration where applicable, and training on digital commerce, export readiness, branding, pricing and online marketing.
The programme will also offer payment and digital commerce enablement, as well as business growth support to help SMEs expand beyond local markets.
The organisers said participants would be equipped to sell products online, receive digital payments, reach customers outside their immediate locations, operate as formally registered businesses and position themselves for grants, loans and other business opportunities.
Applications are open to traders, artisans, fashion designers, farmers, manufacturers, service providers, women-led and youth-led businesses, as well as export-ready SMEs based in Enugu State.
The Enugu State Government said participation in the programme is free, with no enrolment, training, CAC registration, digital storefront or merchant setup fees.
The initiative forms part of the state’s efforts to build a digitally enabled and globally competitive economy under the administration of Governor Peter Mbah.
Interested businesses can apply through the Enugu MSME and Startup Agency’s online portal.