Sundry Markets Hosts MSME Fair, Awards N10m Grants to Retail Entrepreneurs

Sunday Ehigiator

Sundry Markets Limited has reinforced its commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s small business ecosystem with the successful hosting of its MSME Fair, tagged “Retail Ready 1.0,” where three emerging businesses secured a combined N10 million in grants to scale their operations.

The one-day event, held recently in Port Harcourt, brought together key stakeholders across the retail value chain, including representatives from Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria, Bank of Industry, Access Bank, Standards Organisation of Nigeria, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, and United Bank for Africa.

The fair was designed as a platform to equip micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with the tools needed for sustainable growth, improved market access, and resilience amid prevailing economic challenges.

A highlight of the event was the “Retail Ready Pitch Competition,” where participating businesses showcased innovative products and growth potential before a panel of judges. At the end of the exercise, Zelden Foods Limited emerged as the top winner, clinching a N5 million grant, followed by Tahila Foods and Beverages Limited with N3 million, while Delectable Naturals secured N2 million.

The grants, sponsored by Sundry Markets Limited, are aimed at boosting production capacity, supporting expansion plans, and preparing the winners for integration into modern retail distribution channels.

Industry experts at the event delivered keynote addresses and participated in panel discussions, offering insights into funding access, regulatory compliance, quality standards, and distribution strategies.

Speaking at the fair, the Head of Marketing at Sundry Markets Limited, Emmanuel Patrick Isangediok, said: “We are committed to strengthening Nigeria’s MSME ecosystem by providing not only market access but also capacity-building opportunities and direct financial support.”

He added that the “Retail Ready” initiative would continue as part of the company’s broader strategy to develop a resilient retail supply chain while supporting indigenous manufacturers and food processors.

Sundry Markets Limited, owners of the Marketsquare retail chain, said the fair marks the beginning of a sustained effort to bridge gaps in the retail ecosystem and foster long-term growth for small businesses across Nigeria.