The Academy for Women Entrepreneurs Alumnae Association (AWEAA) has called for a review of the Bank of Industry’s (BOI) GLOW Fund policy to enable more women-owned businesses to access financing. The call was made during the Association’s Leadership Transition and Growth Forum held recently at Four Points by Sheraton, Victoria Island, Lagos.
The event marked a major milestone for AWEAA as it inaugurated a new executive leadership team and outlined a renewed strategic direction for its nationwide alumnae network. The forum brought together women entrepreneurs, development partners, media professionals, and members of the business ecosystem to reflect on the association’s impact, achievements, and the way forward.
Outgoing President, Mrs. Adebisi Odeleye, in her address, appreciated members and partners for their support during her tenure. She also used the platform to advocate for policy reforms that would increase women’s access to finance.
Odeleye urged the BOI to review its eligibility criteria for the GLOW (Guaranteed Loan for Women) Fund, which currently requires 51% female ownership, and increase it to 60% women ownership. According to her, the adjustment will allow more women-led enterprises to qualify, thereby boosting economic inclusion and growth.
Keynote speaker and CEO of Lelook Nig. Ltd, Mrs. Chinwe Ezenwa, stressed the importance of creating platforms where women entrepreneurs can connect, collaborate, and access opportunities. “I came here today to inspire younger women, encourage them, and serve as a role model as they grow their businesses,” she said.
In her inaugural speech, the incoming President, Mrs. Victoria Ajayi, reaffirmed AWEAA’s commitment to deepening inclusion, building partnerships, and expanding opportunities for women entrepreneurs.
“We will drive this agenda intentionally through our state representatives, who play a vital role in fostering relationships and championing local initiatives. We will soon be commissioning new representatives, and I encourage more members to rise and serve,” she said.
Participants were also engaged in capacity-building sessions. Michael Maxwell, a tax expert from KPMG Africa, delivered a session on adapting to upcoming tax reforms, while representatives from the BOI GLOW Finance Programme provided guidance on accessing funding opportunities and scaling sustainably.
The forum also doubled as AWEAA’s Annual General Meeting (AGM), where members adopted key resolutions, discussed future initiatives, and reaffirmed their commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs to start, scale, and sustain thriving businesses.
As AWEAA enters a new phase under fresh leadership, the Association remains committed to promoting women’s economic inclusion, strengthening cross-sector partnerships, and amplifying the voices of women entrepreneurs contributing to national development.
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About AWEAA
The Academy for Women Entrepreneurs Alumnae Association (AWEAA) is the umbrella body for Nigerian participants of the U.S. Department of State’s Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) programme. The Association provides a platform for connection, collaboration, capacity building, and access to resources, mentorship, and business opportunities. Through advocacy and partnerships, AWEAA empowers women to build enterprises that drive innovation, job creation, and inclusive economic growth.
