LAGOS, Nigeria — African fintech company Paystack has opened applications for the inaugural cohort of its new Small Business Launchpad, a four-week business growth programme designed to help Nigerian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) strengthen their operations and accelerate expansion. The initiative, which begins on 27 August 2026, will accept up to 50 active Paystack merchants for its first intake.
The programme is available exclusively to active Paystack merchants operating SMEs in Nigeria. Applicants will undergo an eligibility review, and selected businesses must commit to completing the full four-week programme while paying a ₦150,000 participation fee. Paystack said the initiative is the latest addition to its efforts to support merchants beyond payment processing by providing practical business development resources.
Participants will receive access to business clinics led by experienced entrepreneurs and industry specialists, one-on-one expert office hours, priority customer support from Paystack throughout the programme, and three months of free payment processing after completion, capped at ₦25 million in processed transactions. Additional benefits include early access to selected Paystack products, exclusive partner offers, and membership in a long-term Launchpad business community. The curriculum will focus on customer acquisition, financial management, operational systems, and sustainable business growth, with contributions from business leaders including representatives from M-KOPA, Pricepally, KPMG, Bumpa, and Taéillo.
“Small business owners are making decisions every day about customers, cash flow, operations and growth, often with limited time and support. Launchpad gives us a practical way to work more closely with the merchants building on Paystack, connect them with experienced operators, and help them leave with stronger systems, relevant networks and actions they can apply immediately. We want the programme to be useful from day one, not theoretical,” said Jumoke Gbeleyi, Strategy and Operations Leader at Paystack.
The Small Business Launchpad builds on Paystack’s broader strategy to expand merchant support services beyond digital payments. Earlier this year, the company introduced its Small Business Bundle, providing eligible merchants with discounted products and services from trusted partners. The new programme extends that support through structured training, mentorship, networking opportunities, and direct operational guidance for business founders.
Paystack said the programme will initially focus on Nigeria, with plans to introduce additional cohorts in the future. Applications for the first Small Business Launchpad cohort are now open. Eligible Paystack merchants can apply through the online application form.
Background
Paystack is one of Africa’s leading financial technology companies, providing payment infrastructure that enables businesses to accept secure online and offline payments. More than 300,000 organisations, ranging from startups to large enterprises and government institutions, use Paystack’s platform. The company currently serves merchants across Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, Kenya, and Côte d’Ivoire, helping businesses scale through modern payment solutions and commerce tools.
Source: Paystack Press Release
