What I ordered vs what I got! ??????

Dear MSME Africa family!?

I remember one "miracle" teeth whitener I bought online. Who does not desire pearly white teeth in a week? That was what I was promised.?

But guys, it was a big mistake! I will not advise even my enemies to buy such a product. You needed to see how devastated I was even after brushing twice daily for two weeks and there was no change as such.?

So, my dear business owners, your reputation is your life, guard it! I know many businesses often leverage advertising to make claims and promises. But what happens when those promises fall short?

Keeping promises is smart business! Satisfied customers are more likely to recommend your business to others, bringing in new customers organically.

And please be realistic! Don't overhype your product or service's capabilities.

Instead of boasting about a product curing baldness, focus on its genuine benefit - reducing hair loss. This sets a realistic expectation and leaves room to surprise and delight your customers. Think of it this way: every ad is a handshake with a potential customer. A firm grip based on honesty builds trust, a limp one reeks of dishonesty.Remember, under-promise, over-deliver, and watch your business truly shine.

Two weeks ago, I made a promise. I promised to give you tips to make your application stand out when applying for opportunities

I'm here to fulfill it. Take note of the 5 tips I shared below:

? Does it Align perfectly?: Before diving into the application, ensure your project directly addresses the funder's funding priorities. Research their past grants and mission statement to tailor your application for an ideal fit.

? Know your audience: Research the provider's background and interests.? Understanding their perspective allows you to frame your application in a way that resonates with their goals.

? Compelling narrative: Craft a story that captures the essence of your project.? Don't just list facts and figures; weave a narrative that ignites the reader's interest. Highlight the human element and the positive impact your project will create.

? Data with a purpose:?Weave data and statistics into your story to bolster your claims. Quantify the problem you're addressing and the potential impact of your solution.

? Showcase success:? Demonstrate your credibility by including achievements from previous projects.? Highlight past results and endorsements to build trust and assure the grantors of your capabilities.

Here’s what I have for you today.

• Our next Edition of the Business Growth Series is Here
• Opportunities Galore
• Trending Business News?
• Entrepreneurial Origins
• Enterprise Chat

BUSINESS GROWTH SERIES IS HERE!!!!!

This month, we'll be having another physical edition of the “Business Growth Series," where we'll crack the code to success in your business and leave you armed with actionable tips to get the desired result. It's happening on March 27 at the ICAN BOI Hub, Yaba Lagos.?

Register HERE?

Did you attend the last one?????

Don't miss this edition for anything!

Opportunities Galore?

Call For Applications: SMEDAN /Microsoft Certified AI Training For Women Entrepreneurs

All visionary women entrepreneurs!? Don't miss out on this golden opportunity to supercharge your business acumen with SMEDAN/Microsoft's Certified AI Training program!?

Dive into the world of Artificial Intelligence, gain invaluable skills, and pave the way for your success in the digital era. Join us in breaking barriers, seizing opportunities, and shaping the future! Apply now and unleash your potential!?

Call For Applications: Lagos State Agripreneurship Training Program

Are you ready to turn your passion for agriculture into a thriving business venture? The Lagos State Agripreneurship Training Program is here to equip you with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to cultivate success in the agricultural sector.?

?Apply NOW

Call For Applications: RETTI X WAVE Solar Training Program 2024 (Scholarship available)

Ready to shine bright in the renewable energy industry? Introducing the RETTI X WAVE Solar Training Program 2024, where innovation meets sustainability! Dive into the dynamic world of solar energy with expert-led training and hands-on experience.

?Plus, seize the chance to secure a scholarship and light up your future career path! Join us in harnessing the power of the sun and shaping a brighter, cleaner tomorrow.?

Apply now and let your potential soar with RETTI and WAVE!?

Call For Applications: Moniepoint Women in Tech Internship Program

Dear Tech Sis! Moniepoint's Women in Tech Internship is back for 2024! Gain hands-on experience & shape the future of digital finance.?

Here's the link to Apply?

Why not also check out other juicy and breathtaking opportunities HERE? Don’t snooze on it!

News

Bode Roberts Endowment Fund Empowers Budding Entrepreneurs in Nigeria

In an era where entrepreneurship is hailed as a catalyst for economic growth and societal transformation, the Bode Roberts Endowment Fund emerges as a beacon of opportunity for budding entrepreneurs across Nigeria. This groundbreaking initiative, Read More here

CBN Supplies N100bn Worth of Fertilizers to Boost Food Production in Nigeria

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has handed over N100 billion worth of fertilizers to the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security in a bid to enhance food production across the country. Here’s the remaining story?

FATE Foundation and Dutch Bank Partner to Support Nigerian Startups

FATE Foundation partnered with the Dutch Entrepreneurial Development Bank, Netherlands Enterprise Agency, and the Netherlands Consulate-General in Lagos to organize the 'Capital Unleashed Roundtable,' a collaborative effort geared towards bolstering support for startups in Nigeria. Read More?

Flapmax Unveils Women in Artificial Intelligence (AI) Fellowship on Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) – FAI Institute

FAI Institute’s WAI program now accepting applications for 3rd cohort; a short documentary film on Women in AI showcases the program’s success. Here is the details?

Entrepreneurial Origins?

Last week's trivia?

Which of the following businesses was founded by a South African entrepreneur?

1. PayPal

2. Slack

3. Mailchimp

4. Stripe

The correct answer is:

4. Stripe

Today's Trivia?

Which of the following African entrepreneurs is known as the "Father of African Innovation"?

A) Aliko Dangote

B) Strive Masiyiwa

C) Elon Musk

D) Mo Ibrahim

Do you know the answer?

Enterprise Chat

Year after year, research shows that the sales process and customer relationships are two primary contributors to sales success. To be seen as problem solvers, business owners, and salespeople need to get better at providing customers with insights and perspectives that will help them see their problems and potential solutions differently so they can make better decisions.

CEO, Hiyalo Technologies highlighted easy-to-follow steps for building long-lasting and satisfactory relationships with clients and potential clients to boost an increase in sales and revenue. Watch it HERE?

Kindly subscribe to the channel for more resources and share with a fellow business owner.

Upcoming Events

Get ready for the launch of our? “Enterprise Academy”, where you'll get to access courses that can help in your journey of growing and scaling your business enterprise.

And that's not all! We've got a fun surprise lined up for you... but you'll just have to wait and see.? Stay tuned for another edition of the….?

“MSME DIALOGUE”!!??????????

MSME Africa Tip of the Week

Leverage the Power of Customer Reviews

Positive customer reviews are like gold for small businesses. This week, focus on:

Actively requesting reviews: politely ask satisfied customers to leave a review and?

respond to all reviews by thanking happy customers and addressing any concerns promptly.

See you next time,

Ododoola Oyewo for MSME Africa?

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