TikTok and the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) have launched the Digital Commerce Labs, a global programme aimed at helping small businesses in Nigeria and other emerging markets grow through digital tools and training.
The initiative, which will be rolled out across selected countries in Latin America, Africa, and Southeast Asia, is designed to expand access to digital commerce opportunities by combining TikTok’s platform reach with the ICC’s expertise in international trade and business development.
Okay News reports that the programme in Nigeria is being supported by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund, with a focus on equipping entrepreneurs with skills to increase revenue, expand market access, and build long-term business resilience.
The Digital Commerce Labs will connect global expertise with local business communities, creating a scalable learning model that allows entrepreneurs to translate digital knowledge into practical growth strategies.
The programme will deliver training through a mix of community engagement, online learning, and instructor-led sessions, enabling participants to develop digital commerce skills at different levels.
Community sessions will bring small businesses together through both virtual and physical engagements with local partners, encouraging peer learning and collaboration. Participants will also have access to self-paced online modules featuring expert-led videos, interactive learning tools, and certification upon completion. In addition, virtual classrooms will provide direct access to industry experts, allowing entrepreneurs to engage in real-time discussions and deepen their understanding of digital tools.
“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 the 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,” said John W.H. Denton AO, Secretary General of the ICC.
TikTok said the initiative builds on the growing role of its platform in helping small businesses reach new audiences and scale their operations through digital engagement.
“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 International Chamber of Commerce, 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,” said Tokunbo Ibrahim, Acting Head of Government Relations and Public Policy for Sub-Saharan Africa at TikTok.
The programme is expected to launch in 10 countries, with initial rollouts across parts of Latin America and Africa this spring, followed by expansion to additional African markets and Thailand later in the year.
Small businesses in Nigeria have been encouraged to apply for the programme, which aims to provide practical training and tools to help local entrepreneurs improve their capabilities and compete more effectively in the digital economy.
