PROJECT / 003
MARKET MAKERS
THE QUESTION
Why do small businesses in fast-growing cities struggle to reach customers beyond their immediate street?
THE RESPONSE
A market-access programme connecting small manufacturers and traders with retail partners, logistics support and digital storefronts, built around existing trade associations rather than replacing them.
THE NUMBERS
0
Businesses onboarded
0
Retail partnerships
0
Cities
0%
Average revenue increase
0
Logistics partners
2019
Idea
The programme grew out of a market survey in Lagos that found most traders had never sold outside a five-kilometre radius.
2020
Pilot
A first cohort of 80 traders received logistics support and introductions to three retail partners.
2022
Expansion
Market Makers added a digital storefront tool built for traders without existing web presence.
2024
National programme
The programme reached nine cities and formalised partnerships with two logistics companies.
2026
Phase IV
The current phase focuses on export-readiness for the strongest-performing businesses.
Businesses onboarded1,900
Retail partnerships140
Cities9
Average revenue increase34%
Logistics partners22
Programme Overview
2026 Impact Summary
Trader Handbook
Project Timeline
Evaluation Report
RELATED WORK