Alerzo, a prominent technology service provider in Nigeria, has proudly announced the successful completion of a transformative nine-month digital initiative, undertaken in collaboration with Mastercard and the USAID-funded e-Trade Alliance. This groundbreaking program has significantly empowered over 10,000 micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) across the vibrant South-West region of Nigeria. The details of this initiative were shared in a statement released by Alerzo on Friday. The program’s primary aim was to address the myriad challenges MSMEs face, such as navigating intricate supply chains, managing inventory through outdated manual processes, and encountering barriers to accessing essential financial services. To facilitate this transformation, Alerzo introduced a suite of innovative solutions, including Alerzoshop, a dynamic digital B2B marketplace, and Veedez, an advanced digital payment and business management platform. These tools were designed to equip business owners with the necessary resources to not only survive but thrive in the rapidly evolving digital economy. In addition to providing technological tools, the collaboration emphasized enhancing digital literacy through immersive training sessions that combined theoretical knowledge with practical, hands-on experience. This approach empowered MSMEs to harness technology effectively, boosting their operational efficiency and paving the way for sustainable growth. Despite the strides Nigeria has made in embracing digital initiatives, MSMEs, particularly those in the informal sector, still grapple with significant financial literacy gaps and commonly rely on traditional business practices. This comprehensive program offered pragmatic solutions aimed at streamlining operational processes and improving access to innovative financial options. Adewale Opaleye, the Chief Executive Officer of Alerzo Limited, articulated the company’s commitment, stating, “As a key player in Nigeria’s informal retail sector, Alerzo is dedicated to not just creating digital solutions but also ensuring that MSMEs acquire the digital competencies necessary to transform their businesses.” He expressed enthusiasm about partnering with Mastercard, USAID, and the e-Trade Alliance, underlining their collective goal of connecting Nigerian MSMEs to a new era of digital integration, which is vital for enhancing sustainability and profitability. Folade Femi-Lawal, the Country Manager for West Africa at Mastercard, echoed this sentiment, remarking, “Collaborative efforts like this partnership with Alerzo and the e-Trade Alliance can unlock vast opportunities for local economies and communities. By providing essential digital tools, we empower small businesses with the necessary resources to excel in the contemporary digital economy. These tools also enable them to offer diverse payment options to their customers while optimizing their operational management.” The digital literacy training sessions took place in strategic locations throughout South-West Nigeria, including the bustling cities of Ibadan, Sagamu, and Abeokuta. These sessions equipped participants with the skills needed to successfully navigate and leverage the digital economy. Business owners explored the features of Alerzoshop, a user-friendly mobile application that streamlines access to suppliers and facilitates secure, efficient digital payments through Mastercard’s extensive global network. They were also introduced to Veedez, a versatile payment and business management tool that provides vital micro-lending services, ensuring entrepreneurs have access to essential financial resources. Michael Poor, Senior Manager at Nextrade Group and the implementing partner for the e-Trade Alliance emphasized the significance of this public-private sector collaboration. He noted, “Our collective commitment to promoting inclusive economic growth through digital transformation is crucial. By merging our expertise in skills development for e-commerce and inclusive trade with access to finance, we aim to support Nigerian MSMEs in overcoming the challenges they face in today’s digital landscape.” “Together with Alerzo and Mastercard,” he continued, “we are dedicated to empowering small businesses with the knowledge and tools they need to thrive and to foster broader, more inclusive, and sustainable growth in Nigeria.”