Call for Proposal: Capacity Building Support for Innovation Support Organizations in Abia, Kano, Lagos, Rivers States and the FCT

The Digital Transformation Centre Nigeria (DTC Nigeria), a capacity-building initiative funded by the European Union and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, has issued an official invitation for applications from Innovation Support Organisations (ISOs). This program aims to support the digital transformation of non-tech Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in four states of Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Selected ISOs from Abia, Kano, Lagos, Rivers states, and the FCT will have their capacities enhanced to facilitate the digital transformation of non-tech MSMEs within their respective states/regions. These states are recognized as innovation hubs with ventures studios, incubators, and accelerators that have the potential to significantly impact the MSMEs landscape.

Non-tech MSMEs encounter various challenges that can be alleviated through digital transformation. ISOs, such as innovation hubs, incubators, accelerators, and companies supporting innovators, play crucial roles in helping enterprises address these challenges. They provide essential support and resources to entrepreneurs, contributing to the innovation ecosystem by aiding in the development and commercialization of new ideas, products, and services.

In order to effectively assist non-tech MSMEs, ISOs must develop services that promote digital innovations facilitating the digital transformation process. The goal of this call for applications is to identify ISOs from Lagos, Abia, Rivers, Kano States, and the FCT, Abuja, which have significant projects and capabilities to drive the digital transformation.

Benefits of the Capacity Building Support for Innovation Support Organizations in Abia, Kano, Lagos, Rivers States and the FCT

• A customized program will be designed to enhance the digital transformation support services provided by the selected ISOs to MSMEs in their respective regions.

• Each selected ISO will receive financial assistance to carry out their MSME digital transformation project.

ISOs located in Lagos, Abia, Rivers, Kano States, and the FCT, Abuja are invited to download the application guideline for comprehensive details regarding the call.

• Application Questions for the Capacity Building Support for Innovation Support Organizations in Abia, Kano, Lagos, Rivers States and the FCT

Before commencing the application process, please ensure that you have the necessary documents prepared. These documents will need to be uploaded along with your application. The required documents are as follows:
1. Your CAC document
2. An organogram of your organization, outlining the specific roles and responsibilities of each team member.
3. A project concept that is designed to support the digital transformation of Non-Tech MSMEs in your designated region.
Your proposed project proposal should address the following points:
A. The scope of the project and a plan for implementing a program that will incubate and have an impact on a specific number of MSMEs in your state/region. The objectives of the program should include:
i. Ensuring that MSMEs understand the importance of Digital Transformation and the areas in which it can be applied.
ii. Assisting MSMEs in learning how to incorporate technology into their businesses, as well as the fundamentals of business operations, marketing, financial management, etc.
iii. Developing a Needs Assessment for all MSMEs based on their current status and growth requirements. This assessment should identify the services or technological solutions needed by each business. Digital Consultants will be engaged to provide these services and support the adoption of the solutions.
B. The criteria and process for selecting MSMEs to participate in the program.
C. A high-level budget for the proposed project. Please outline the specific areas where funding will be required.
D. The team that will be responsible for delivering the project. Please provide details of the individuals who will be involved.
E. Success metrics for measuring the impact of the project.
In this context, Non-Tech MSMEs refer to micro, small, and medium enterprises that have not yet embraced technology.

• These are traditional businesses that have yet to leverage technology for managing and expanding their operations.
• For more details and to apply visit the official website