Manufacturing Africa Programme Fuels Economic Growth

A UK government initiative has mobilized over $630 million in investment and facilitated the creation of more than 21,400 direct jobs across 23 Nigerian businesses. The programme’s success was highlighted at a recent event in Lagos attended by British High Commissioner Pete Vowles and other industry leaders.

The Manufacturing Africa initiative, funded by the UK government, has supported high-potential businesses in Nigeria and five other African markets since 2020. Through investor readiness training, capital connections, and deal support, the programme helps companies secure funding and scale their operations.

New Fundraising Toolkit Launched

The Lagos event also marked the launch of a free digital toolkit designed to empower Nigerian businesses seeking investment. Drawing on six years of UK-funded experience across Africa, the Manufacturing Africa Fundraising Toolkit provides practical guidance, investor insights, and customizable templates—all at no cost.

“I’m delighted to celebrate this milestone,” said Jonny Baxter, British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos. “These transactions demonstrate what can be achieved when businesses have access to targeted support that enables them to reach commercial finance.”

The toolkit incorporates lessons from over 300 investment opportunities and features input from more than 23 international investors, including development finance institutions and private equity firms.

Nigeria’s Growing Investment Landscape

Nigeria represents a key market for the Manufacturing Africa programme, accounting for over a quarter of early-stage investment activity in Africa. With five of the continent’s eight unicorns calling Nigeria home, the country offers significant potential for growth and innovation.

The new Fundraising Toolkit is available online at https://manufacturingafrica.org/fundraising-toolkit