CALL FOR GRANT APPLICATIONS FOR ENTREPRENEURS WITH DISABILITIES IN NIGERIA

 OPPORTUNITIES LIKE THIS DON'T COME OFTEN - AND THIS ONE IS INTENTIONAL

Through Art for Ability, we are proud to open applications for seed to entrepreneurs with disabilities across Nigeria.

If you are building something, no matter how small or growing - this is for you. 

From fashion to tech, agriculture to crafts, your work deserves to be seen, suppoted and scaled. 

This is more than grant , it is statement: ability is not limited by disability. 

Requirements:

- Photos of applicant & Business 

- Minimum of 6 months in operation 

- Disability type must be stated

- Applicant must be the business owner/operator

- CAC (optional)

Apply by submitting your applications here👇🏼

theabilitylife@gmail.com

Deadline: 3rd April 2026

Read More »

APPLY FOR THE BLOOM GRANT SEED FUNDING

BLOOM GRANT OPPORTUNITY TO SUPPORT WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS IN NIGERIA 

 The Bloom Grant supports women entrepreneurs in Nigeria who are building businesses that create positive social impact in their communities. Selected entrepreneurs will receive up to $1,000 in funding to support the growth of their businesses.

We are looking for women who are building real businesses beyond the idea stage, demonstrating leadership, resilience, and commitment to improving their communities.

Eligibility Criteria:

✔ Must be a Nigerian woman residing in Nigeria

✔ Must own a registered business

✔ Business must be operational (not at idea stage)

✔ Early-stage businesses not more than 5 years in operation

✔ Must demonstrate clear social, economic, or community impact

✔ Must commit to post-grant reporting and visibility activities


Application Deadline: March 30, 2026

Apply using the link below 👇🏼 

The Bloom Grant

Read More »

APPLY FOR THE FEMINIST STORYTELLING GRANT BY EXILE HUB

 The Feminist Storytelling Grant by Exile Hub

"There are stories the world celebrates"

"And then there are stories the world tries to silence"

If you are a woman telling stories that challenge injustice, question systems, and amplify voices that are often ignored—this is your moment.

The Feminist Storytelling Grant by Exile Hub is more than funding.

It is a call to courage. A platform for truth. And a powerful opportunity to turn your voice into impact.

Why This Grant Matters

Across the world, many women are telling stories under pressure—navigating censorship, cultural barriers, displacement, or even personal risk.

This grant exists for you.

It is designed to support:

- Women and feminist storytellers

- Journalists, writers, filmmakers, and creatives

- Voices from underrepresented or high-risk communities

Your story doesn’t need to be perfect.

It needs to be real, bold, and necessary.

Because feminist storytelling is not just content—it is resistance.

What You Stand to Gain

Selected applicants will receive:

Financial support to bring their stories to life

Access to a network of like-minded storytellers

Opportunities for growth, visibility, and impact

But beyond all of this, you gain something even more powerful:

👉 The chance to own your narrative—and have it heard.

Who Should Apply?

You should seriously consider this opportunity if:

- You have a story that challenges gender inequality

- You are passionate about social justice and truth-telling

- You’ve been waiting for the right support to bring your idea to life

- Whether it’s through writing, film, audio, or visual storytelling—your medium is valid.

- What matters most is your message.

Application Deadline

⏳ Deadline: March 31, 2026

This is your window.

Opportunities like this don’t stay open forever—and neither should your voice remain unheard.

Apply using the link below 👇🏼 

https://form.jotform.com/260640833735458?utm_source=ScholarshipBob

Read More »

 📢 Call for Applications: Cooperative Development Support Programme (CDSP)‼️

The Cooperative Development Support Programme is inviting applications from cooperatives seeking to strengthen their operations and scale their businesses. Through this grant fund, 50 cooperatives will receive support to improve production efficiencies, enhance product quality, and grow their enterprises.

Interested cooperatives can download the application form here 👉 https://tr.ee/z7KkSc 

🗓 Closing Date: 20 March 2026

Read More »

Apply For The The Jerry Eze Foundation Entrepreneurship Grant

The Jerry Eze Foundation Entrepreneurship Grant

About This Grant

The Jerry Eze Foundation is the charitable arm of Pastor Jerry Eze’s ministry, recognized for its impactful outreach across Nigeria. One of its annual standout initiatives is the distribution of gifts and grants to empower young entrepreneurs.

 This philanthropic work aligns with Pastor Jerry Eze’s broader mission through Streams of Joy International and the NSPPD (New Season Prophetic Prayers and Declarations) platform, which emphasizes transformation, hope, and divine intervention. 

The Foundation now seeks to empower young entrepreneurs and small businesses through grants. While the grant award is broad based, entrepreneurs and small businesses operating in the agriculture, manufacturing and technology industries will be preferred.

Eligibility Criteria

1. Applicants must be Nigerian citizens or legal residents living and operating in Nigeria.

2. Applicants must be 18 years or older at the time of application.

3. The grant is open to Individual entrepreneurs with a registered business name

4. The grant is open to Micro and Small Enterprises (SMEs) with verifiable registration with CAC.

5. The business must be registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) as Business Name, Limited Liability Company or Non-Governmental Organisation.

6. The business must have been operational for at least 6 months prior to the application date

7. Business applicants must have a valid business bank account in the business name

8. Priority will be given to businesses operating in Agriculture and agribusiness - Manufacturing - Technology and digital services

9. Businesses in other sectors may apply but must demonstrate strong social or economic impact

10. For businesses - annual turnover must not exceed ₦10 million

11. Applicants must demonstrate a clear need for funding and explain how the grant will be utilize

12. Applicants must not have been convicted or involved in fraud - financial misconduct - illegal activities or under criminal investigations.

13. Proposed business plan must align with ethical business practices and impact communities

Required Documents👇🏼

- Valid means of identification - NIN

- CV

- Most recent six-month bank statements

- Evidence of business registration

- Business budget

- Pictures of the business premise, inventory, work tool/equipment

- Reference letters from notable individuals familiar with the business; A religious leader and a customer

- Passport Photograph

Grant Details
Application Deadline
31st Dec, 2026 11:58 PM

Grant Period
2nd Mar, 2026 – 31st Dec, 2026

Apply using the link below 👇🏼 

https://www.jerryezefoundation.org/home

Read More »

APPLY FOR THE RAY FELLOWSHIP 2026-2028

PAID FELLOWSHIP RAY Fellowship 2026 to 2028

Applications are now open for the 10th cohort of the RAY Fellowship Program for the 2026 to 2028 cycle. This is a fully funded and paid fellowship. It is designed to support emerging leaders who are passionate about environmental protection, community development, and social change.

For over ten years, the RAY Fellowship has supported young leaders to strengthen their leadership skills and expand professional networks. Additionally, it advances environmental leadership across communities nationwide. Fellows receive hands-on experience, mentorship, leadership development training, and opportunities to work on impactful projects. These projects improve environmental outcomes and community well-being.

This fellowship is ideal for individuals committed to making positive change in their communities. Also, it is for those who want to build long-term careers in environmental leadership, advocacy, and community engagement. Applicants are encouraged to apply. Moreover, they should share the opportunity with friends and colleagues who may be a good fit.

Who Should Apply

- Emerging leaders with an interest in environmental justice community organising sustainability and leadership development

- Individuals ready to grow professionally build networks and contribute meaningfully to community impact

Programme Duration 2026 to 2028

Applications Open March 2 2026

Apply using the link below 👇🏼 

https://rayfellowship.org/apply

Read More »

Apply to the WE Empower UN SDG Challenge 2026

 Apply to the WE Empower UN SDG Challenge 2026 - Fully funded!

The WE Empower UN SDG Challenge is a global competition for women social entrepreneurs who are working to advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. These entrepreneurs also inspire positive change within their communities. The challenge supports women leaders who are building impactful enterprises. These enterprises contribute to a more inclusive, sustainable, and equitable world by the year 2030. Moreover, participating in the WE Empower UN SDG Challenge 2026 offers invaluable recognition for those committed to the UN’s targets.

About the Program

Selected awardees will be notified by mid July 2026. Awardees will have the opportunity to travel to New York City to participate in activities during Climate Week. In addition, they will attend the 81st United Nations General Assembly from September 19 to September 26, 2026. Participants will engage in a high impact agenda. This agenda includes pitch workshops and tailored support from leading partners. Furthermore, it includes curated networking sessions with global leaders in business, policy, and philanthropy.

 Notably, the WE Empower UN SDG Challenge 2026 is designed to connect awardees to international opportunities.

The program will conclude with the WE Empower Pitch Challenge hosted by philanthropist and fashion icon Diane von Furstenberg. Diane is also a board member of Vital Voices. During this session, awardees will present their enterprises to a panel of judges for a chance to win grant funding. Additionally, presenting at this event highlights the spirit and goals of the WE Empower UN SDG Challenge 2026 for women leaders.

Due to possible changes in United States visa policies, the organizers are also considering hosting the 2026 WE Empower Challenge in Geneva, the second headquarters of the United Nations, during the week of June 14 to June 20, 2026. Applicants should be ready and willing to travel to either location during either timeframe. Furthermore, flexibility is key for those joining the WE Empower UN SDG Challenge 2026.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet all of the following requirements before applying:

- Applicants must identify as a woman entrepreneur. For the WE Empower UN SDG Challenge 2026, this includes founders who are dedicated to sustainability.

- Applicants must lead decision making within their organization or business to be considered for the WE Empower UN SDG Challenge 2026.

- The business or organization must have been in operation for at least three years as of August 1, 2026 for WE Empower UN SDG Challenge eligibility.

- The business or organization must employ at least three full time employees or full time equivalents as part of the WE Empower UN SDG Challenge 2026 requirements.

- The business or organization must generate a minimum of seventy five thousand United States dollars in annual revenue. For nonprofit organizations, revenue may include donations, grants, and fundraising income. This is a criterion for the WE Empower UN SDG Challenge 2026.

- Applicants must be professionally proficient in English, as the WE Empower UN SDG Challenge 2026 programming is conducted in English.

- Applicants must be at least twenty one years old by August 1, 2026 for the WE Empower UN SDG Challenge 2026 consideration.

- Applicants must be available to travel to New York City and participate in all in person events from September 19 to September 26, 2026. They must also participate in virtual programming from August to October 2026. Commitment to the WE Empower UN SDG Challenge 2026 schedule is essential.

Application Timeline

Applications open at 12 00 AM United States Eastern Time on Monday January 26, 2026 for the WE Empower UN SDG Challenge 2026 cohort.

Applications close at 11 59 PM United States Eastern Time on Sunday March 8, 2026. This deadline applies for all entries to the WE Empower UN SDG Challenge 2026 program.

Apply using the link below 👇🏼 

https://weempower.awardsplatform.com

Read More »

 Petty Traders Grant Support Programme (Up to ₦100,000) – Nigeria

Nigeria’s Petty Traders Grant Support Programme is attracting attention across social media and opportunity platforms — offering grassroots entrepreneurs much-needed seed capital between ₦10,000 and ₦100,000 to start or grow small businesses.

🧾 What Is the Petty Traders Grant Support Programme?

The programme is a community-driven financial support initiative aimed at empowering Nigerians who engage in small-scale trading — examples include market sellers, side-street vendors, mobile hawkers, and aspiring micro-business owners. The idea is simple: provide accessible funding for petty traders who struggle to access traditional loans or business financing.

It’s designed as a grant, not a loan — which means beneficiaries are not required to pay it back.

🎯 Key Features of the Programme

Here are the main elements as shared by official and published sources:

💰 Grant Amount

₦10,000 – ₦100,000 in seed capital to support business launch or growth.

✅ Open to

Aspiring entrepreneurs with business ideas.

Existing petty traders seeking supplementary funds.

Participants without formal business registration (CAC not required).

📝 Application Simplicity

Minimal documentation is required.

No complex bureaucracy, collateral, or business registration.

You must fill and submit an application form.

👥 Target Beneficiaries

Typical beneficiaries include:

Market traders (provisions, food items).

Kiosk and stall owners.

Mobile vendors and hawkers.

Individuals offering small services (tailoring, shoe repair, etc.).

🧑‍💼 Eligibility Criteria

Applicants usually must:

Youth Empowerment Nigeria +1

Be a Nigerian resident.

Be between 18 and 55 years old.

Have a valid NIN slip.

Provide a 10-digit bank account number.

Give a verifiable residential address.

Submit the official application once (duplicates can disqualify).

📅 Key Dates & Application

For the 2026 cycle, one published source notes:

🗓 Application Period: 29 January – 31 March 2026

💳 Disbursements: April – May 2026

Applicants are encouraged to complete one submission and avoid re-submissions to prevent disqualification.

👉 Typically, applications are submitted via an online form on the programme’s official portal (links often hosted on Youth Empowerment Nigeria’s site and opportunity aggregators).

🖇 How It Works

The process generally follows three basic steps:

Register:

Fill out your personal and business details online.

Onboarding & Verification:

The programme may contact applicants to verify information submitted.

Disbursement:

Once shortlisted and verified, successful applicants receive the grant directly into their bank accounts.

Shortlists are published online at different stages before disbursement.

Apply using the link below 👇🏼 

https://youthempowermentnigeria.org/index.php/petty-traders-grant-support-programme

Read More »

 Apply Now: Max Thabiso Edkins Youth Ambassador Program 2026 — A Global Youth Leadership Opportunity

Are you a young changemaker passionate about sustainability, innovation, and community impact? The Max Thabiso Edkins Youth Ambassador Program is open for applications — offering a unique chance to learn, connect, and act on some of the world’s most pressing development and climate challenges. 

📌 What Is the Max Thabiso Edkins Youth Ambassador Program?

The Max Thabiso Edkins Youth Ambassador Program is a global leadership and capacity-building initiative run by the World Bank Group’s Youth2Youth (Y2Y) community in partnership with Connect4Climate (C4C). It honors the legacy of Max Thabiso Edkins, a champion for youth inclusion and climate action, by empowering the next generation of leaders to design sustainable solutions for a livable planet. 

This fully virtual 6-month program brings together young people from around the world to learn from experts, work on real-world challenges, network with global peers, and engage in meaningful campaigns that align with global development priorities. 

🌱 What You’ll Gain as an Ambassador

If selected, 2026 Youth Ambassadors will enjoy a range of non-monetary benefits aimed at strengthening leadership, knowledge, and impact:

✅ Learn from experts — Join sessions led by World Bank Group specialists and partners on topics like energy, water, agribusiness, gender equality, health, tourism, digital innovation, and more. 

✅ Participate in global campaigns — Contribute to initiatives like Health Works, Mission300, Empowering Women, and AgriConnect.

✅ Build connections — Network with peers, professionals, and sector leaders from across the globe. 

✅ Join an active alumni community — Engage with past ambassadors and access ongoing collaboration opportunities beyond completion. 

🧠 Who Can Apply?

This opportunity is open to global youth who are eager to amplify their impact. To be eligible, you must:

🔹 Be between 20 and 30 years old

🔹 Be studying, entering the job market, or building a career in a relevant sector

🔹 Have a strong interest in sustainability, green jobs, or community development

🔹 Be curious, motivated, and collaborative

🔹 Have interest in areas like energy, water, agribusiness, gender equality, health, tourism, or digital innovation

🔹 Be committed to diversity, dialogue, and exchange of ideas across cultures 

👉 Applicants from all countries are welcome, and the program runs online, so you don’t need to relocate to participate. 

🗓 Key Dates & Application

📅 Application Deadline: 24 February 2026 — make sure to submit your form before this date to be considered for the 2026 cohort. 

💡 Important Notes:

• The program is non-monetary — it focuses on skills, learning, and networks, not stipends or funding. 

• Use of AI-generated responses for application materials is prohibited and could disqualify your submission. 

• Previous ambassadors and current World Bank Group employees are not eligible. 

✨ Why You Should Apply

The world is at a turning point — and young leaders are at the heart of shaping its future. The Max Thabiso Edkins Youth Ambassador Program isn’t just about personal skill-building; it’s about becoming part of a global movement of youth poised to create change in sustainable development, climate resilience, and community advancement.

Whether you dream of influencing policy, launching impactful projects, or building networks that span continents, this program gives you the platform to grow — and the support to carry your ideas forward.

Apply using the link below 👇🏼 

https://tinyurl.com/3xkz5z2h

Read More »

FULLY FUNDED: ADMISSION OPEN FOR DUBAI BUSINESS ASSOCIATES(DBA) 2026/27

 Admission Open for Dubai Business Associates (DBA) – Apply Now for 2026/27!

Are you a recent graduate or early-career professional with big dreams in business and strategy? Exciting news — applications are now open for the prestigious Dubai Business Associates (DBA) Programme, a fully-funded, world-class professional development experience based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates! 

🎯 What Is the Dubai Business Associates Programme?

The Dubai Business Associates programme is a 9-month fully funded graduate training initiative designed to prepare young professionals for global leadership and strategic roles. It combines practical consulting experience, academic modules, and immersive cultural exposure in a dynamic international business hub. 

Run under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the programme attracts high-potential talent from around the world and offers a unique opportunity to build real-world business skills while living and working in Dubai. 

📅 Programme Highlights

Length: 9 months of full-time experiential learning in Dubai. 

Training: Includes academic business modules, strategy consulting projects, placements with Dubai organisations, and masterclasses led by industry leaders. 

Community & Network: Become part of a diverse global cohort and build lifelong professional connections. 

📣 What’s Included (Fully Funded!)

Applicants accepted into the programme receive:

✅ Return flights to/from Dubai

✅ Accommodation in Dubai

✅ Medical insurance

✅ Monthly stipend for living expenses

All programme costs are covered, with no application fees. 

🧠 Who Should Apply? Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible to apply for the DBA programme, you typically need to:

- Have up to 3 years of work experience (early-career professionals and recent grads welcome). 

-Be fluent in English (spoken and written).

- Be curious about global business and committed to leadership growth. 

Applicants from all nationalities are encouraged to apply. 

📝 How to Apply

The application typically includes submitting the following:

📌 Your CV / resume (1–2 pages)

📌 A cover letter (up to 500 words) explaining your motivation and goals

📌 A brief video introduction (up to 90 seconds) showcasing your personality and aspirations

➡️ Apply online through the official DBA website: www.dubaibusinessassociates.ae

👉 Or Here!

Note: The current application cycle is open now and closes on 1 March 2026 for the cohort starting in September 2026. 

📢 What Alumni and Social Media Say

Posts from the official Dubai Business Associates LinkedIn and Instagram profiles highlight real experiences, masterclasses, visits to iconic business sites in Dubai, and reminders that applications for Year 12 are open and closing soon. 

Current associates also share behind-the-scenes experiences, giving prospective applicants a glimpse of the programme environment and culture on Instagram takeovers. 

🌍 Why Should You Consider Applying?

This programme is more than just a professional opportunity — it’s a global launchpad:

Gain hands-on consulting experience with real organisations.

Develop leadership, strategy, and business skills that top employers seek internationally. 

Expand your global network and cross-cultural confidence. 

Join a prestigious community of alumni from over 50 countries. 

Whether you’re passionate about strategy, innovation, or global business leadership, the Dubai Business Associates programme could be the career-defining experience you’ve been waiting for! 🌟

Apply now and take the next step in your global career journey. APPLY HERE

Read More »

 Women in Agric: Empowering Women-Led Agri-SMEs in Nigeria

Nigeria’s agricultural sector remains one of the strongest drivers of food security, employment, and economic resilience. Yet, women—who make up a significant percentage of the agricultural workforce—often face limited access to finance, business development services (BDS), mentorship, and structured market opportunities.

To bridge this gap, Women in Agric has been launched as a targeted initiative to support and strengthen women-led Agri-SMEs across selected states in Nigeria.

About the Initiative

The Women in Agric programme is part of the broader project titled:

“Systems Strengthening for the Provision of BDS and Access to Finance for Agric-SMEs in Nigeria.”

The initiative is implemented through collaboration between:

AGRA

Kaduna Business School

Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria

Enterprise Development Centre, Pan-Atlantic University

It is supported by global development partners including:

Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation

KfW

The Rockefeller Foundation

UK International Development

What Women in Agric Offers

This initiative is designed to empower women in agri-business through structured support mechanisms, including:

🌱 Business Clinics & Mentorship

Participants gain access to experienced business development service providers, structured advisory sessions, and hands-on mentorship designed to strengthen business models, operations, and financial management.

🌾 Working Capital Support & Training

The programme provides access to working capital support alongside training that enhances financial literacy, investment readiness, and growth strategy execution.

Together, these interventions aim to improve sustainability, scalability, and profitability of women-led Agri-SMEs.

Target States

The Women in Agric programme is currently focused on women-led agribusinesses operating in:

Kaduna State

Niger State

Nasarawa State

Women entrepreneurs within the agricultural value chain in these states are encouraged to apply.

Why This Initiative Matters

Women play a critical role across Nigeria’s agricultural value chain—from primary production to processing, packaging, and distribution. However, limited access to structured business support and finance often restricts their growth potential.

By strengthening systems that provide BDS and improving access to finance, this initiative contributes to:

Increased productivity of women-led Agri-SMEs

Job creation within rural and peri-urban communities

Improved food systems resilience

Stronger participation of women in Nigeria’s agribusiness ecosystem

This aligns with national economic development goals and broader gender-inclusive growth strategies.

Application Deadline

🗓 Applications close on 26 February, 2026.

Use the link below 👇🏼 to apply 

Women in Agric

Read More »

APPLY FOR THE SWIS AFRICA FELLOWSHIP 2026

 SWIS Africa EmpowHER Fellowship 2026

The Shaping African Women in STEM (often abbreviated SWIS Africa) has opened applications for its SWIS EmpowHER Fellowship Programme 2026 — a special opportunity designed to support final-year female students studying in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) in Nigerian universities. 

This fellowship isn’t just a programme — it’s a launchpad for young women ready to step confidently into leadership roles in science, technology and innovation across Africa.

📌 What Is the SWIS EmpowHER Fellowship?

The EmpowHER Fellowship is a mentorship and development initiative tailored specifically for female students in their final year of STEM-related studies. It provides training, mentorship, networking opportunities, and real-world career preparation as you complete your degree and plan your next steps — whether that’s graduate school, industry work, research, or entrepreneurship. 

The programme taps into global frameworks like the UN Sustainable Development Goals by supporting quality education, gender equality, and economic opportunities for women in STEM. 

Shaping African Women in STEM

🎯 Who Can Apply?

To be eligible for the 2026 SWIS EmpowHER Fellowship, applicants must meet the following criteria: 

- Be female

- Be a final-year student enrolled in a STEM course (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)

- Be studying at a Nigerian university

- Have a strong academic standing

- Show clear motivation and interest in leadership or community impact

This is a chance for young women who are passionate about science and technology to receive mentorship from successful leaders, build confidence, and prepare for careers beyond graduation. 

🎁 What You’ll Gain from the Fellowship

Participants in the SWIS EmpowHER programme benefit from:

✨ Professional mentorship — work one-on-one and in groups with accomplished women in STEM fields

✨ Leadership and career development training — build the skills needed to thrive in competitive fields

✨ Networking opportunities — connect with peers, experts, and potential employers

✨ Certificates and recognition — formal recognition of your participation and achievements

✨ Stipends — financial support for the duration of the programme

✨ Access to a growing alumni community — stay connected long after the fellowship ends 

These benefits help bridge the gap between university and your career launch — whether that’s in research, industry, tech startups, or entrepreneurship.

📝 How to Apply

Interested and eligible students should:

Visit the official application link HERE

Complete the application form with accurate personal, academic, and motivation details

Submit required documents such as your CV, academic transcripts, and any reference letters

Ensure your application is submitted before the deadline — details are below 👇 

👉 The latest application deadline is 28 February 2026 — so act early to avoid missing out. 

Read More »

 Morgan Stanley Small Business Academy 2026 — Applications Now Open!

Are you a small business owner looking to level up your business skills, expand your network, and get support from industry leaders? The Morgan Stanley Small Business Academy has officially opened its application cycle for 2026, and this is an opportunity you don’t want to miss! 

📅 Key Dates You Should Know

Application Window: Now open

Application Deadline: March 6, 2026 — mark your calendar! 

This means there’s still time to submit your application and join an exciting cohort of small business leaders ready to accelerate their growth. 

📘 What Is the Small Business Academy?

The Small Business Academy is a free, educational program designed to help small business owners:

🧠 Strengthen business knowledge

💡 Explore competitive advantage strategies

🔍 Learn how to navigate procurement processes

🤝 Build valuable professional networks

The program blends structured learning with practical mentorship to help businesses win contracts — especially with financial services firms and related industries. 

Over 12 weeks, participants engage in a virtual, instructor-led curriculum, followed by a year of personalized mentorship to help them implement what they’ve learned. 

🧩 Who Can Apply?

Here’s a breakdown of the eligibility requirements:

🌍 Business Location

Small businesses based in the United States, Canada, or Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA) are eligible to apply. 

📁 Business Structure

Must be a registered for-profit company.

Businesses operated in underserved communities are especially encouraged to apply. 

⏱ Years in Operation

U.S. & Canada: 3–12 years

EMEA: 2–12 years 

💰 Revenue Requirements

U.S. & Canada: Annual revenue between $100,000 and $2 million

EMEA: Annual revenue between $50,000 and $1 million 

👥 Representation

Up to two representatives from the same business can participate. 

📈 Why Apply?

This Academy isn’t just a course — it’s a growth engine for ambitious entrepreneurs. Participants gain:

🗣 Targeted business training

🤝 Connection to industry mentors

📈 Guidance on business scaling and procurement

💼 Potential access to small business opportunities with Morgan Stanley and partners 

Plus, learning with peers from around the world means new perspectives, collaboration opportunities, and fresh ideas to take your business to the next level. 

✍️ How to Apply

Applying for the Small Business Academy is simple:

Visit the official program page on Morgan Stanley's Website  to read more!

Apply using the link below 👇🏼 

APPLY HERE

Complete the online application form before the deadline of March 6, 2026. 

Submit your business information and demonstrate how your company meets the eligibility criteria...

Read More »

FULLY FUNDED: THE AFRICAN UNION CONTINENTAL CAPACITY BUILDING TRAINING 2026 FOR YOUNG AFRICAN YOUTH

 Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders: African Union Continental Capacity Building Training 2026 for Young African Youth

Africa’s greatest strength lies in its youth — dynamic, innovative, and ready to transform the continent. In 2026, the African Union Commission (AUC), through its Department of Political Affairs, Peace and Security (PAPS) and the African Governance Architecture – African Peace and Security Architecture (AGA-APSA) Secretariat, launched the Continental Capacity Building Training Programme for Youth. This initiative is fully funded and open to young Africans across all AU Member States. 

The training aims to strengthen youth participation in democratic governance, elections, and Pan-African leadership, equipping participants with tools to engage meaningfully at community, national, and continental levels. 

📍 Who Is Eligible?

Participation is open to young African citizens who:

- Are between 18 and 35 years old at the time of application. 

- Demonstrate leadership or involvement in democratic governance, civic engagement, peace, elections, or youth advocacy initiatives. 

- Are affiliated with youth-led organizations, civil society, or national institutions working in relevant fields. 

- Show commitment to applying and sharing their training within their communities after the programme. 

- Efforts are made to ensure gender balance, regional representation, and geographic diversity among participants. 

🗓️ Training Logistics & Benefits

📍 Location: African Union Commission Headquarters, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. 

📅 Tentative Timing: April 2026 (exact dates subject to change). 

💼 Costs Covered: Travel, visa, accommodation, and full participation costs are fully funded by the AU Commission — meaning no application or participation fee is required. 

📚 Core Training Themes

The programme is designed around key areas including:

- Democratic governance and elections — understanding electoral cycles, civic processes, and democratic norms. 

- Civic engagement and advocacy — how to mobilize communities and influence policy. 

- Pan-African leadership — building skills rooted in shared continental values and leadership frameworks. 

- African Union norms such as the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance (ACDEG) are emphasized to ground discussions in continental legal frameworks. 

- Participants are expected to gain practical leadership, advocacy, and governance skills that can be applied both locally and continentally. 

🧠 Selection Process

Selection prioritizes:

- Motivation and clarity of intent in application essays. 

- Demonstrated contributions to community governance, youth participation, or civic engagement. 

- The potential impact of participants’ work after the training. 

- Shortlisted candidates are contacted directly; long-listed applicants are not guaranteed participation. 

📌 Why This Training Matters

- This continental initiative aligns with Agenda 2063, the AU’s long-term framework for a prosperous Africa driven by its citizens, including youth. Aspiration 6 of Agenda 2063 emphasises youth empowerment, governance, and inclusive participation — core themes of this training. 

- By focusing on democratic participation and leadership, the programme seeks to prepare a new generation of African leaders who are informed, confident, and equipped to shape the continent’s future. 

📌 Application Deadline: the deadline to submit applications was around 27 February 2026 (11:55 PM Addis Ababa time).

Use the link below 👇🏼 to apply https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdY9JFVV7IqfeS6szz6qWfAUyyul5OT5uAc03_QIam4iWBSKw/closedform

If you are encountering any issues, kindly send an email to mailto:AGA-APSA@africanunion.org

Read More »

Apply Now: SDGs Advocate Programme (Cohort 8)

 Apply Now: SDGs Advocate Programme (Cohort 8) – Empowering Youth for Sustainable Impact

Are you passionate about sustainable development and ready to take action in your community? Do you want to gain skills, network with changemakers, and drive real impact across Nigeria’s states? If so, the SDGs Advocate Programme (Cohort 8) could be your next big opportunity! 

📌 What Is the SDGs Advocate Programme?

The SDGs Advocate Programme is a 4-month intensive training and advocacy initiative designed to equip young people with the knowledge, tools, and practical skills needed to champion the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in their communities. 

This programme is hosted by youth-focused development networks working with partners to raise awareness about the 17 global SDGs – a set of goals adopted by world leaders in 2015 to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all by 2030. 

🎯 Why This Programme Matters

The SDGs Advocate Programme targets youth leaders and aspiring changemakers interested in learning how sustainable development works and how they can drive community actions that contribute to achieving the SDGs at the local and national level. 

✔️ It responds to the need for youth-led advocacy and grass-roots action towards Nigeria’s sustainable development. 

✔️ It strengthens young people’s capacity to design and implement SDG-aligned projects. 

✔️ It builds a nationwide community of advocates who can educate, mobilize, and lead in understanding and implementing SDGs locally. 

📘 Programme Structure & What You’ll Learn

Participants across the SDGs Advocate Programme typically benefit from:

🌟 Comprehensive learning modules — over 20 lectures and original reading materials that explore the SDGs, project management, community development, and leadership skills. 

🌟 Assessments and practical tasks — helping you apply what you learn and build strong advocacy skills. 

🌟 Hands-on impact projects — participants design and lead “Own-a-School” or community development projects to spread SDG awareness and create measurable impact. 

🌟 Networking opportunities — connect with other young leaders from across Nigeria and beyond. 

🌟 Certification & recognition — successful participants become certified SDGs Advocates, enabling them add credibility to their advocacy work. 

👥 Who Should Apply? Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for Cohort 8, applicants must:

✔️ Be a Nigerian citizen

✔️ Be aged 18–35 years

✔️ Have the commitment to dedicate at least 4 hours per week to the programme

✔️ Be available for virtual training sessions

✔️ Have a passion for development and sustainability (no prior SDG knowledge required!) 

This makes the programme suitable for students, recent graduates, young professionals, and community leaders who are eager to grow as sustainable development advocates.

📅 Application Details – Cohort 8

🗓 Deadline: February 27, 2026 | 11:59 PM (WAT)

📍 Mode: Online application

📨 Apply via: https://bit.ly/sdgscohort8

Follow updates on @UNSDSNYouthNigeria on social platforms. 

🌱 Benefits of Participation

- Participating in the SDGs Advocate Programme offers valuable benefits:

- Deep understanding of the SDGs and equitable development

- Improved leadership and advocacy skills

- Hands-on community engagement experience

- Access to a network of young change leaders

- Certification that adds professional value 

Moreover, past cohorts have seen participants launch successful community projects, reach thousands of youths with awareness campaigns, and receive recognition for contributions to sustainable development across Nigeria. 

Apply here👇🏼

https://forms.gle/WD2gQexDMC9DziLfA

Read More »