FirstGem Fund Loan Powers Nigerian Women-Led MSMEs with Single-Digit 9% Interest and N500,000 to N3,000,000 in Funding

FirstGem Fund from FirstBank Nigeria is changing the game for women-led MSMEs across Nigeria. With affordable single-digit 9% interest and tailored support, the facility gives female entrepreneurs access to N500,000 up to N3,000,000 to grow working capital or acquire assets, backed by mentoring and capacity-building that suits our local market realities.

What the FirstGem Fund offers

The FirstGem Fund loan provides clear, practical financing for small businesses owned or led by women, featuring a competitive 9% annual rate. Loan sizes from N500,000 to N3,000,000 fit micro and small enterprises in both urban centres like Lagos and smaller towns across the country.

Beyond cash, applicants receive hands-on support from FirstBank through advisory services and networking opportunities tailored to women in business. The package includes short tenures suitable for quick-turn stock cycles as well as longer term asset financing where needed.

Eligibility and target sectors

To qualify you need at least 51% female ownership and CAC registration, reflecting practical standards used across Nigerian MSME programmes. FirstGem Fund targets sectors where women are already active: food processing, beauty and cosmetics, catering and confectionaries, transportation, and agro-allied retail value chains.

FirstBank keeps the process realistic for local entrepreneurs by accepting applicants who can open a Gem Business account and provide standard business statements if they bank elsewhere. This ensures women from diverse regions can access the N500,000 to N3,000,000 facility without unnecessary hurdles.

How to apply and repayment terms

Applying is straightforward: download the retail loan application form from FirstBank or visit any branch, attach CAC docs and business statements, and submit for assessment. FirstBank aims for a simple turnaround so businesses can access funds when opportunities arise in the Lagos market or beyond.

Repayment terms vary by facility type, typically 12 months for working capital and up to 24 months for term loans, making cashflow planning practical for traders and small manufacturers. Fees include a one-time 0.5% management charge and a 0.5% Keyman Insurance fee, clearly disclosed at application.

Why FirstGem Fund matters for Nigerian women entrepreneurs

FirstGem Fund addresses a major gap: affordable capital for women-led MSMEs in Nigeria who struggle with high-interest alternatives. By offering single-digit 9% interest and mentoring, FirstBank helps female entrepreneurs turn local skills into scalable businesses and sustainable incomes.

This fund strengthens communities by boosting job creation and value chains across states, supporting Lagos hustles and rural agricultural hubs alike. For women ready to grow, the FirstGem Fund is a practical, locally-minded loan solution that aligns finance with real business needs in Nigeria.