On the 1st of July, 2024, Paritie Innovation Hub successfully hosted the maiden edition of Small Business, Big Doings Workshop, an initiative designed to empower micro, small, and medium-sized businesses (MSMEs) in Niger State. The workshop, which was a blend of deep learning, hands-on practical and networking aimed at equipping entrepreneurs with the tools and strategies necessary for sustainable growth, build a database and community of business owners in the region and enhance brand awareness for Paritie.
The event began with an opening remark by Nkem Okoro, the Hub/Community Manager, who introduced Paritie Innovation Hub and its mission, which set the stage for workshop proper.
Speaker Sessions
The workshop featured three impactful sessions:
- Dr. Caroline Alenoghena, the Guest Speaker, delivered a detailed presentation on using the Business Model Canvas as a framework for business analysis and strategy.
- Mr. Samuel Adeniyi and Mr. Syed Abdullahi shared actionable insights on growing and sustaining MSMEs, with a focus on business structuring and networking.
- Mr. Shehu Bawa Bwari, the Coordinator of Entrepreneurship from the Ministry for MSMEs, engaged participants in a Q&A session, addressing key challenges faced by entrepreneurs in Niger State.
Interactive Activities
- Icebreaker Session: Participants were grouped into three teams and tasked with creating a business idea and analyzing it using the Business Model Canvas. This exercise sparked collaboration and creativity.
- Polls: Opinion polls captured participants’ perspectives on the business environment in Niger State, offering valuable insights.
- Networking & Photo Sessions: Attendees connected with speakers and peers, creating a vibrant atmosphere of amity.
The workshop was anchored by Sylvia Mkar, Content Creation Lead of Paritie. The workshop concluded with a closing remark by Mr. Syed Abdullahi, who encouraged participants to apply their newfound knowledge to their business.
While there were challenges, the event’s outcomes underscored the importance of such initiatives in fostering a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem in Niger State. The journey doesn’t stop here! With the upcoming Small Business, Big Doings 2.0 scheduled for 18th of July, 2024, participants can look forward to a deeper dive into business development strategies and hands-on training.