TikTok and ICC Launch Global Digital Commerce Initiative to Support Small Businesses in Nigeria
Digital Commerce Labs aims to harness TikTok’s proven success in supporting small businesses worldwide, combined with ICC’s extensive expertise in trade and business education, to deliver a high-impact digital commerce programme for local entrepreneurs.
TikTok and the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) have jointly announced the launch of Digital Commerce Labs — a global initiative designed to unlock digital commerce opportunities for small businesses in selected markets across Latin America, Africa, and Southeast Asia. Businesses of all sizes flourish on TikTok, utilising the platform to reach new customers and strengthen their brands. This programme will leverage TikTok’s suite of digital commerce tools alongside ICC’s expertise in international trade, network of national committees, and chambers of commerce to broaden access to training, mentorship, and digital resources in Nigeria.
Supported by Nigeria’s National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund, TikTok and ICC will empower small businesses in Nigeria with digital skills and tools to increase revenue opportunities, expand market reach, and foster long-term resilience. By integrating global expertise with local business communities, Digital Commerce Labs aims to create a scalable education model that can be replicated across markets, helping entrepreneurs convert digital knowledge into tangible growth. The programme is committed to developing sustainable digital commerce ecosystems through close collaboration with national chambers and local organisations.
The initiative will generate learning and economic impacts through three interconnected components:
– Community Building: Establishing a foundation for peer learning and networking through virtual and face-to-face sessions with relevant local ecosystem partners.
– Self-Led Online Training: Offering flexible, in-depth learning via a dedicated platform, including videos produced by local experts, interactive quizzes, and certificates of completion.
– Virtual Classrooms: Facilitating instructor-led sessions where entrepreneurs can engage directly with industry specialists, ask questions in real time, and deepen their understanding of digital commerce strategies.
John W.H. Denton AO, Secretary General of the ICC, commented, “This partnership marks a powerful step forward in our mission to build a more inclusive, dynamic, and accessible global economy. By joining forces with TikTok to launch Digital Commerce Labs, we are equipping entrepreneurs and small businesses across ten markets with the practical tools, knowledge, and confidence they need to thrive in the digital age. Ultimately, this initiative is about impact: unlocking opportunity, strengthening resilience, and ensuring that the benefits of digital commerce are shared more widely. Together, we are helping shape a more inclusive future for businesses globally.”
Tokunbo Ibrahim, Acting Head of Government Relations & Public Policy for Sub-Saharan Africa at TikTok, added, “We’ve seen how small businesses can grow rapidly on TikTok by connecting with communities in authentic ways. This has reinforced the importance of educating small business owners on how they can go beyond visibility and actively support their long-term success. Our partnership with the ICC, NITDA, and Lagos State Employment Trust Fund is an important step in that direction, equipping entrepreneurs with the resources they need to scale and thrive.”
The Digital Commerce Labs programme is set to launch in ten countries, supporting entrepreneurs via community initiatives, digital learning resources, and virtual training sessions. It will commence in selected markets across Latin America and Africa this spring, with further expansion planned across Africa and Thailand later in the year.
Small businesses in Nigeria are encouraged to sign up for this comprehensive training programme, tailored specifically to help local entrepreneurs sharpen their skills and expand effectively.