TheCable

The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) has set up a textile and garment workshop for fashion designers.

The agency also granted one month of free access to the entrepreneurs.

In a statement on Tuesday, the agency said the workshop was established as part of SMEDAN’s efforts to provide access to tools, knowledge, and markets for SMEs.

According to SMEDAN, the workshop plays a crucial role in creating an enabling environment by reducing the cost of production and providing discounted access to model tools and resources required by small businesses in the sector to grow.

“We aim to elevate the quality of Made-in-Nigeria fashion items, ensuring their competitiveness in domestic and international markets,” SMEDAN said.

“Additionally, it signifies a shift in our approach from one-to-one to one-to-many, for the greatest impact.

“SMEs can gain access to the workshop by completing the registration process, which involves filling out a form for documentation and scheduling.

“We are currently in the test phase of the model, and those currently using the workshop are granted a one-month grace period as we continue to raise awareness and collaborate with important local stakeholders to strengthen the model and broaden its impact.”

SMEDAN, however, said a monthly subscription fee of N8,000 is required to use the workshop when the test phase is over.

It said with this basic charge, subscribers can enjoy access to all the tools and utilities.

The workshop, which was commissioned in Abuja, by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, began operations following the official commissioning.