Keystone Bank Limited and the Enterprise Development Centre (EDC) of Pan-Atlantic University yesterday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), youth entrepreneurship, and financial inclusion across the country.

Speaking at the event, the bank's Executive Director, Corporate and South, Nnenna Okoro,described the partnership as a bold and strategic step toward accelerating national economic transformation.

According to her, the collaboration underscores the bank's unwavering commitment to empowering the next generation of business leaders and fostering an inclusive financial ecosystem.

"At Keystone Bank, we believe that entrepreneurship is the heartbeat of sustainable economic development. Across Nigeria, MSMEs are not just businesses; they are the dreams and daily struggles of men and women determined to create value, provide jobs, and build a better future. They are, quite literally, the engine room of our national economy.

"Our sponsorship of the Annual EDC SME Conference 2025 and support for the Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) Walk reflect our deep belief in the transformative power of small businesses.

The bank's Group Head, Retail & Digital Banking, Olayemi Sule emphasized that the partnership is also aimed at offering improved service to customers.

The EDC board member and Head, Alumni Relations and Support Services at Pan-Atlantic University, Dr. Nnenna Ugo expressed optimism about the partnership's long-term impact.