The Lift Above Poverty Organisation Microfinance Bank (LAPO MfB), a premium financial institution has restated its commitment to financial inclusion and empowerment of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), recently when it hosted a high-level engagement with the Premia Business Network (PBN) delegation at its Head Office in Lagos.
Led by renowned social entrepreneur Bola Lawal, the PBN delegation comprised over 30 startup founders, senior executives and key decision-makers from the financial services and fintech industries.
The engagement centered on fostering strategic partnerships and exploring potential collaborations to drive the growth and sustainability of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria and beyond. With over 30 years experience in microfinance, LAPO MfB has played a pivotal role in providing financial and non-financial services to underserved entrepreneurs, enabling business growth and economic development.
Speaking at the event, Director of Marketing and Communications at LAPO MfB, Oluremi Akande, emphasized the institution’s commitment to advancing financial inclusion and supporting SME entrepreneurs through innovative solutions and strategic collaborations.
“At LAPO Microfinance Bank, we are deeply committed to empowering SMEs and fostering an ecosystem where entrepreneurs can thrive. Engaging with the Premia Business Network delegation provides a unique opportunity to explore synergies that align with our mission of improving lives through sustainable financial solutions.
“We look forward to leveraging this partnership to expand financial access, drive digital transformation, and unlock new growth opportunities for SMEs across Nigeria and beyond,” Akande stated.
On his part, Lawal expressed enthusiasm about the potential for collaboration between LAPO MfB and PBN, highlighting the importance of financial access and support for startup founders and SMEs.
Lawal said: “The engagement with LAPO Microfinance Bank has been truly inspiring. As an institution with a strong legacy in financial empowerment, LAPO MfB’s work aligns with our mission at Premia Business Network—to create opportunities for entrepreneurs and foster sustainable business growth.
“We are excited about the possibilities that lie ahead as we work together to bridge funding gaps, enhance capacity building, and drive impact-driven entrepreneurship in Africa.”
LAPO MfB and PBN will continue discussions on potential areas of collaboration, including digital financing solutions, capacity-building initiatives, and investment opportunities tailored to support SMEs and Financial Technology (Fintech) startups.
