Over the years, we at Shecluded, a female-focused finance and capacity-building company on
a mission to unlock economic prosperity for African female entrepreneurs has reached
remarkable milestones. We have trained over 50,000 women across four African countries,
disbursed over $4 million to women-led businesses, and established a co-working space in
Lagos, Nigeria, which serves as a hub for over 1,000 women annually.
Our journey to champion financial inclusion and entrepreneurial growth has been both
rewarding and transformative. Supporting these entrepreneurs across diverse sectors has
provided invaluable insights and lessons. Below are some key takeaways from our work:
Capital Access Requires Holistic Solutions, Not Just Funding
Capital access remains the most critical hurdle for women entrepreneurs, but solving this
challenge requires more than just loans. Many women entrepreneurs need a combination of
capital, capacity-building, and financial planning to fully leverage funding opportunities. Without
a foundation of business skills and strategy, access to capital often results in short-lived gains.
Shecluded’s approach combines tailored funding, financial literacy, and advisory services
to maximize the long-term impact of financing.
Testimonial: “Shecluded not only funded my business but also helped me create a sustainable
growth plan. Today, I manage my growth better and make informed decisions.”
Entrepreneurial Success is Built on Systems and Strategy, Not Just Hard
Work
Hard work alone doesn’t guarantee business success—systems, processes, and strategic
planning are what differentiate high-growth businesses from struggling ones. Many
entrepreneurs initially run their businesses informally without proper structures.
Through operations training, Shecluded helps women design scalable business models,
implement better record-keeping, and optimize business operations to achieve consistent
growth.
Testimonial: “The systems I learned through Shecluded have transformed my operations. I’ve
moved from manual bookkeeping to automated systems that save me hours each week.”
Collaborative Ecosystems Drive Faster Growth
Individual success is often dependent on collective support. We have seen women
entrepreneurs accelerate their growth by engaging with peers, mentors, and collaborative
ecosystems. The exchange of ideas, advice, and referrals drives innovation and opens new
doors that would be difficult to unlock in isolation.
Shecluded has built entrepreneurial ecosystems through structured peer networks,
mentorship programs, and industry roundtables, allowing women to share resources, learn from
experienced professionals, and access opportunities faster.
Testimonial: “I met two business partners through a Shecluded networking event. Their advice
and support has been instrumental in expanding my brand.”
Personal and Cultural Barriers Are as Limiting as Structural Ones
Access to resources is important, but personal beliefs and cultural expectations can also limit
women’s ability to succeed. Many women entrepreneurs juggle multiple roles at home and in
their communities, often placing their businesses second. Additionally, societal pressures
sometimes discourage women from taking on leadership roles.
Shecluded has worked to reshape mindsets through mentorship and capacity-building
programs, helping women develop confidence, leadership skills, and strategies for work-life
integration.
Testimonial: “For years, I underestimated my potential. Through Shecluded, I’ve learned to see
myself as a business leader and not just a small business owner.”
Technology Adoption is Essential for Business Survival in the Modern
Economy
The businesses that thrive in today’s competitive landscape are those that embrace technology
to increase efficiency, expand customer reach, and scale operations. However, many women
entrepreneurs lack the access or skills to fully leverage digital tools.
Shecluded has integrated digital literacy and technology training into its programs, helping
entrepreneurs adopt online platforms, e-commerce solutions, and marketing tools to future-proof
their businesses.
Testimonial: “Thanks to Shecluded’s tech training, I launched an online store that now generates
60% of my monthly sales.”
CEO’s Perspective
Ifeoma Uddoh, CEO of Shecluded, shares:
“~70% of the African population is under 30 years old.
~48% under the age of 17 years old.
The heightened economic and social condition is undermining the family unit, and as a result, more
women are responsible for shaping their children’s lives, particularly in the absence of a structured
social welfare system in Africa.
No doubt, Women are the gatekeepers of one of Africa’s most valuable and promising resources: its
youth.”
The Road Ahead for 2025: Scaling Impact
Reaching 50,000 women entrepreneurs is a milestone we are proud of, but it is only the
beginning. In 2025, Shecluded is committed to:
● Expanding access to capital through a wider range of financial products.
● Advocating for policy reforms to create systemic change with industry stakeholders.
● Leveraging technology to scale our programs and train an additional 10,000 women
this year.
● Building stronger ecosystems that foster collaboration, mentorship, and support for
women entrepreneurs.
Our mission remains the same: to unlock opportunities and drive long-term economic growth for
African women. We invite stakeholders, partners, and allies to join us on this journey to create a
more equitable and prosperous future.
