USAID, partners empower 10,000 businesses with digital tools

Alerzo, Nigeria’s technology service provider, in collaboration with Mastercard and the USAID-funded e-Trade Alliance, has completed a nine-month digital transformation programme.

According to a statement by Alerzo, the programme empowered over 10,000 micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises across South-West Nigeria.

The initiative aimed to tackle challenges faced by MSMEs, including complex supply chains, manual inventory management, and limited access to financial services.

Through solutions like Alerzoshop, a digital B2B marketplace, and Veedez, a digital payment and business management tool, the program equipped business owners with essential tools to thrive in the digital economy.

The collaboration also featured digital literacy training with hands-on sessions, helping MSMEs leverage technology to enhance efficiency and achieve sustainable growth.

Despite Nigeria’s progress in digital adoption, MSMEs in the informal sector continue to face financial literacy gaps and rely on traditional processes. This programme offers practical solutions to streamline operations and access innovative financing options.

The Chief Executive Officer of Alerzo Limited, Adewale Opaleye, said, “As a leading player in Nigeria’s informal retail sector, Alerzo is committed not only to building digital solutions but also to ensuring MSMEs have the digital skills needed to transform their businesses.

“We’re delighted to have collaborated with Mastercard, USAID, and the e-Trade Alliance for this project, as it reflects our dedication to connecting MSMEs in Nigeria to a world where digital connectivity is integrated into their businesses, making them more sustainable and profitable.”

The Country Manager for West Africa at Mastercard, Folasade Femi-Lawal, added, “Efforts like this collaboration with Alerzo and the e-Trade Alliance can unlock immense possibilities for local economies and communities.

“Digital tools give small businesses some of the resources needed to thrive in today’s digital economy. They help provide the payment choices their customers want while helping to manage their operations more efficiently.”

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