Evidence-Based Dialogue
A decade of convening policymakers and practitioners around research that moves the needle for Nigerian entrepreneurs.
12th Edition · Since 2015
The 12th Annual Policy Dialogue Series on Entrepreneurship
Over a decade-strong, agenda-setting forum where policymakers, private sector leaders and ecosystem stakeholders shape the future of sustainable entrepreneurship in Nigeria
Date
Thursday, November 19, 2026
Time
9:00 AM (WAT)
Venue
Ecobank Pan African Centre, Lagos
About the Series
12 years of shaping Nigeria's entrepreneurship agenda.
The Annual FATE Institute Policy Dialogue Series is hosted by the FATE Institute the research, policy and advocacy division of FATE Foundation leading innovative thinking and creating platforms for idea exchange to foster sustainable entrepreneurship in Nigeria.
Over the past decade, the Series has become a respected agenda-setting forum that convenes policymakers, private sector leaders and ecosystem stakeholders to develop actionable, evidence-based solutions that drive entrepreneurship growth and sustainability.
Ecosystem Convening
Private sector leaders, government, academia and development partners in one room, working on the same problem.
Actionable Outcomes
Every dialogue produces concrete policy recommendations to advance sustainable entrepreneurship in Nigeria.
Highlights of the PDS
Moments from a decade of policy dialogue.
A look back at the conversations, convenings and communiques that have shaped Nigeria's entrepreneurship agenda.
A decade of agenda-setting dialogue
Since 2015, the PDS has convened Nigeria's most consequential voices on entrepreneurship policy on one stage, in one room.
Where the ecosystem meets
Founders, investors, ministers and multilaterals build relationships that outlast the day itself.
Evidence into action
Every edition produces a communique that shapes real reform for Nigerian enterprise.
Speakers
Voices shaping the 2026 conversation.
An outstanding lineup is being finalized.
Stay tuned
Speaker details coming soon
We're finalizing this year's lineup. Check back shortly to meet the voices shaping the 2026 conversation.
Programme
Agenda for the day.
Thursday, November 19, 2026 · Ecobank Pan African Centre, Lagos.
Agenda subject to change · All times WAT
Full Programme
8 sessions
- 9:00 AM
Arrival & Registration
Guests check in, network over coffee and settle into the Ecobank Pan African Centre.
- 9:45 AM
Opening & Welcome Address
Framing the 12th edition of the Policy Dialogue Series and its focus for 2026.
- 10:15 AM
Keynote Address
A headline address setting the tone for the year's policy conversation on entrepreneurship.
- 11:00 AM
State of Entrepreneurship in Nigeria
Presentation of the FATE Institute's flagship annual research findings.
- 12:00 PM
Panel I — Policy for Productive Enterprise
Government, private sector and ecosystem leaders on unlocking growth for Nigerian MSMEs.
- 1:15 PM
Networking Lunch
Curated conversations across the ecosystem over lunch.
- 2:15 PM
Panel II — Capital, Markets & the Next Decade
Financing, market access and the future of sustainable entrepreneurship.
- 3:30 PM
Communique & Closing Remarks
Consolidating actionable recommendations from the day's dialogue.
Technical Committee
Distinguished leaders shaping the 2026 dialogue.
The 2026 PDS Technical Committee brings together leaders from business, academia, public policy, government and the development sector to deliver evidence-based conversations and practical policy recommendations for advancing entrepreneurship in Nigeria.
12
Editions
50+
Policy briefs
1,000+
Stakeholders convened
Ecobank Pan African Centre
270 Ozumba Mbadiwe, Victoria Island, Lagos
A landmark venue at the heart of Lagos' business district.
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