Obama Foundation Leaders Program 2027/2028: Apply Before the Deadline

Are you a changemaker working to improve your community? The Obama Foundation Leaders Program 2027/2028 is now accepting applications, and it costs nothing to take part. It is open to emerging leaders across Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe and the United States.

If you are a Nigerian or African leader, this is a program to look at closely.

What Is the Obama Foundation Leaders Program?

The Obama Foundation Leaders Program is a global, virtual leadership development journey that runs for about eight months. It brings together leaders from different sectors to share ideas, learn from one another and strengthen their values-based leadership.

Participants spend about 8 to 12 hours a month on:

•Weekly virtual group learning sessions on leadership frameworks, with regional experts and breakout group work

•Monthly community groups, where peers build relationships and study case studies of prominent leaders

•Individual leadership coaching to clarify goals, build self-awareness and work on regional challenges

•Leaders Africa is a cohort of 35 leaders from across the continent. After the program, graduates join the Obama Foundation Leadership Network, a community of alumni working on real solutions to pressing problems.

Who Can Apply?

The program is for leaders aged 24 to 45 working in the public sector, civil society or the private sector, who have shown a commitment to the common good. For the Africa program, the Foundation's published requirements (from the previous cycle) include:

•Living in an African country or territory

•Being a citizen or permanent resident of an African country, or having lived in Africa for at least the last 5 years

•Work focused on creating change in local communities, an African country, or the wider region

•At least 3 years of relevant experience in your issue area

•Professional proficiency in English

•Not running as a candidate in an election during the program

•No legal or regulatory restrictions that would stop you from joining a U.S.-based program

•Applicants from Asia-Pacific, Europe and the US should check the requirements for their own region on the Obama Foundation website.

Benefits

•Free for selected participants. The Foundation says participants pay no fees.

•Leadership training and individual coaching

•A global peer network and lifelong access to the Obama Foundation Leadership Network

•Note that the Foundation does not give grants or funding for participants' own projects.

Application Deadline

Priority deadline: November 23, 2026

Final deadline: December 4, 2026, according to several opportunity platforms

The Obama Foundation's own page lists only the November 23 priority deadline, so treat that as your real target. Applying early gives you the best chance of being considered.

How to Apply

Read the program details and eligibility for your region on the official Obama Foundation Leaders page.

Prepare your answers, a clear description of your work and the impact it has had.

Submit through the official portal.

👉 Application link: https://thebarackobamafoundation.submittable.com/submit

Final Thoughts

Programs like this build networks, confidence and credibility that last far beyond the program itself. If your work is making a difference, give your application the time it deserves.

Don't Miss the Next Opportunity!

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 Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship on Entrepreneurship 2027: Apply Now

Do you have a business idea and want training, mentorship and a shot at startup funding, without leaving home? The 2027 Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship on Entrepreneurship could be your opportunity. Applications are open to African students and recent graduates, and the deadline is 1 December 2026.

What Is the Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship on Entrepreneurship?

This is an eight-month, fully virtual programme run by the Dunin-Deshpande Queen's Innovation Centre (DDQIC) at Queen's University, Canada, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation. It helps young Africans turn ideas into real ventures that create social and financial impact.

You don't need an established business to apply. Early-stage ideas are welcome, and the programme is offered at no cost.

Who Is the Fellowship For?

You can apply if you:

•Are a citizen of an African country

•Are a student currently enrolled in a post-secondary institution, or a recent graduate (within the past five years)

•Want to solve pressing problems and bring an entrepreneurial idea to life

•Can commit to all three phases of the online programme

•Have reliable internet access and a device for virtual sessions and assignments

•All academic disciplines are welcome.

Benefits of the Fellowship

•Training

-A business bootcamp led by Queen's University faculty and industry leaders

-The Disciplined Entrepreneurship framework, a step-by-step method for building scalable startups, developed at MIT

-Pitch coaching, plus live workshops on marketing, goal setting and recruiting

-Micro-credentials in entrepreneurship from Queen's University for successful completion

-Mentorship and networking

-Access to mentors and speakers from the innovation and entrepreneurship space

-A network of Queen's entrepreneurial alumni

-A cohort of thousands of students and recent graduates from across Africa

-Matching with industry leaders and entrepreneurs in the final phase

•Funding

-Up to 60 Fellows are selected in the final phase to receive a CAD $500 stipend

-A chance to pitch for prizes of up to CAD $15,000 in the end-of-programme pitch competition

Programme Timeline

Phase

Dates

Phase 1: Explore Entrepreneurship

January – February 2027

Phase 2: Ignite Entrepreneurship

March – April 2027

Phase 3: Launch Entrepreneurship

May – August 2027

Application Deadline

1 December 2026, 12:59 pm ET. Successful candidates will be notified by the end of December 2026. Nigerian time is ET plus six hours, so plan to submit well before the cut-off.

How to Apply

👉 Apply here: https://www.queensu.ca/innovationcentre/programs/jim-leech-mastercard-foundation-fellowship-entrepreneurship

The application is free. Be careful of anyone asking you to pay, and only trust official communication from Queen's University.

Tips for a Stronger Application

Be clear about the problem you want to solve. Say who it affects and why it matters.

Show commitment. Make it clear you can complete all three phases.

Keep your answers specific. Use real examples, numbers and steps instead of general statements.

Apply early. Don't wait for the last day, when portals get busy and mistakes happen.

Don't Miss the Next Opportunity
Fellowships, grants and funding calls open and close every week, and many applicants only find out after the deadline. Bookmark Ganarious Blog (ganariousblog.com) and visit regularly for fresh opportunity roundups, entrepreneurship tips and guides for Nigerian and African entrepreneurs. Share this post with a friend who needs it, and leave a comment telling us if you're applying.

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Apply for the MCW Global Young Leaders Fellowship 2027. Open to young people aged 18–26 worldwide. Deadline: 3 December 2026. See eligibility, benefits and how to apply.

 MCW Global Young Leaders Fellowship 2027: How to Apply (Deadline 3 December 2026)

 MCW Global Young Leaders Fellowship 2027: Eligibility, Benefits & How to Apply

 MCW Global Young Leaders Fellowship 2027, fellowship for young Africans, fellowship in the USA, fully funded fellowship 2027

Are you a young person who wants to solve real problems in your community? The MCW Global Young Leaders Fellowship 2027 could be your chance to turn that passion into a funded project, with mentorship and an in-person leadership training in the United States.

Applications are open, and the deadline is close. Here is everything you need to know.

What Is the MCW Global Young Leaders Fellowship?

The MCW Global Young Leaders Fellowship is a year-long programme for young changemakers interested in community development and leadership. Fellows identify a community issue in education, health, or economic security and work to address it with training and mentorship.

The programme has three stages:

•Community Needs Assessment (June 2027): A one-month virtual phase where you study the needs of your community.

•In-person training (20–29 July 2027): A 10-day leadership training in New York, NY and Burlington, VT, USA.

•Project implementation (July 2027 – July 2028): About 10 months of developing and carrying out your community project, with virtual support from an alumni mentor.

Who Can Apply? (Eligibility)

The fellowship is open to international applicants from anywhere in the world. You should:

•Be aged 18 to 26 at the start of the programme (1 June 2027)

•Show a real commitment to your community

•Identify a community issue in education, health or economic security

•Be fluent in written and spoken English

•Have reliable access to email and the internet

•Be eligible for the visa and travel documents needed for the US training

•Commit to the full programme timeline

Benefits: What Do Fellows Get?

MCW Global covers:

•Economy-class international and domestic US flights related to the programme

•Accommodation during the in-person training

•Three meals a day during the in-person training

•Travel between New York and Burlington, plus local transport from the airports

•Mentorship from an alumni mentor and leadership training

Please note: Accepted fellows pay a $100 refundable deposit (due by 16 March 2027), which is returned after successfully completing the in-person training. Passport, visa fees and in-country transport are not covered.

Application Deadline

•Thursday, 3 December 2026, 11:59 PM (New York time).

•Late or incomplete applications will not be considered, so don't wait for the last day.

What You Need to Apply

•A completed online application, in English

•A one-page resume

•Two letters of recommendation (in English)

•Responses to the essay questions

•A liability waiver

•Tip from the organisers: Avoid generic or AI-generated answers. MCW Global says it values original ideas and authentic experiences over polished language. Tell your own story, and be specific about the problem you want to solve and why.

How to Apply

👉 Apply here: https://mcwglobal.org/young-leaders-fellowship-2027

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the MCW Global Young Leaders Fellowship fully funded?

It covers flights, accommodation and meals for the in-person training. Fellows pay a refundable $100 deposit and cover passport, visa and in-country transport costs.

Can Nigerians and other Africans apply?

Yes. The fellowship is open to applicants worldwide, aged 18 to 26.

Is there an application fee?

No application fee is mentioned on the official programme details. Always confirm on the official page.

Which fields can my project focus on?

Education, health or economic security.

Don't Miss the Next Opportunity

Fellowships, grants and scholarships close fast, and the ones you miss can't be reopened. Bookmark Ganarious Blog and check back every week for new, verified opportunities and entrepreneurship tips for young Nigerians and Africans. Share this post with a friend who needs it, and tell us in the comments if you plan to apply.

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The British Academy/Wolfson Fellowships 2026-27 offer three-year funding for early-career UK-based researchers in the humanities and social sciences. Check eligibility, deadline and how to apply.

 British Academy/Wolfson Fellowships 2026: Funding for Early-Career Researchers (Deadline 14 December 2026)

 British Academy Wolfson Fellowships 2026, Wolfson Fellowship application, early-career researcher funding, humanities and social sciences fellowship, postdoctoral fellowship UK

Are you an early-career researcher who wants time to focus on your research and share it with the public? The British Academy/Wolfson Fellowships 2026-27 may be the opportunity for you. The application deadline is 14 December 2026.

What Are the British Academy/Wolfson Fellowships?

These are three-year awards from the British Academy in partnership with the Wolfson Foundation. They support UK-based early-career researchers who show exceptional talent in both research and public engagement in the humanities and social sciences.

The fellowships give early-career academics time by releasing them from some teaching and administrative duties, with extra funding for public engagement activities. This is the fifth round of the scheme, and the British Academy expects up to six fellowships to be awarded.

Key Details at a Glance

•Funders: The British Academy and the Wolfson Foundation

•Duration: 3 years

•Fields: Humanities and social sciences, with a public engagement component

•Funding: Up to £140,000 per award over three years, according to third-party listings. Confirm the exact figure in the official guidance notes.

•Scheme opened: 21 October 2026

•Deadline: 14 December 2026, 5:00pm UK time

•Results announced: May 2027

•Start date: between 1 September 2027 and 1 January 2028

Who Can Apply?

This fellowship is for early-career researchers based at a UK host organisation. Applicants are generally expected to have completed their viva voce (PhD oral exam) on or after 14 December 2019, unless an approved exemption applies. Read the official Scheme Guidance Notes and FAQs carefully, because incorrectly submitted applications are ineligible.

A note for readers outside the UK: this fellowship is for researchers based in the UK. If you are not, check our other fellowship and grant roundups on this blog.

Why You Should Consider Applying

•Protected research time for three years

•Public engagement support to take your research beyond academia

•A network of outstanding researchers. Fellows join previous cohorts and attend Fellowship symposia.

•Prestige. The British Academy is the UK's national academy for the humanities and social sciences.

•Be Prepared: It's Competitive

•Previous rounds attracted a high volume of applications, with success rates often under 10%. Start early and get your host institution involved, since the deadline covers both submission and organisational approval. Many universities set earlier internal deadlines.

How to Apply

•Read the Scheme Guidance Notes, Application Guidance Notes and FAQs.

•Confirm your eligibility and notify your research office.

•Complete the online application form through the British Academy's Flexi-Grant portal.

•Get institutional approval and submit before 14 December 2026, 5:00pm UK time. Late applications are not accepted.

👉 Application link and full guidance: https://www.thebritishacademy.ac.uk/funding/wolfson-fellowships

For questions, contact grants@thebritishacademy.ac.uk.

Don't Miss the Next Opportunity!

Deadlines pass quickly, and the next fellowship, grant or scholarship could be the one that changes your career. Bookmark Ganarious Blog and check back every week for the latest verified fellowships, grants and funding opportunities for Nigerian and African professionals. Share this post with a researcher who needs it, and drop a comment if you have questions. 

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 Airtel Africa Tech Fellowship 2026/2027: How to Apply for This Fully Funded Scholarship in Nigeria

Are you a Nigerian student admitted to study computer science or another tech course? The Airtel Africa Tech Fellowship 2026/2027 could cover your education from start to finish. The Airtel Africa Foundation has opened its call for applications, and the deadline is close.

This guide covers what the fellowship is, who can apply, the benefits, the deadline, and the application link.

What Is the Airtel Africa Tech Fellowship?

The Airtel Africa Tech Fellowship is a scholarship programme of the Airtel Africa Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Airtel Africa. In Nigeria, it runs through Airtel Nigeria. The 2026/2027 call targets 100 Nigerian undergraduates studying ICT and technology-related courses. It is meant to remove financial barriers for talented students and build Nigeria's pool of digital skills. 

The programme is already producing results. Airtel Nigeria has disbursed first-year funding to the first cohort of 100 beneficiaries. Across Africa, 257 students in Malawi, Nigeria, Tanzania, the DRC and Uganda have received fully funded university scholarships to study STEM courses through the fellowship. Earlier-cycle notices say the support runs for the full duration of the Bachelor of Tech, Science and Engineering programme, stated as 4–5 years. (Mon, 3 Aug 2026|Tech • Business • Economy Portal +2)

Benefits of the Airtel Africa Tech Fellowship

According to the official call, fellows receive:

•Tuition support

•Stipends

•Mentorship

•Essential study needs, such as learning materials and academic support

•Some scholarship listings also mention accommodation support. Confirm the full package on the official application page.

Who Is the Fellowship For? (Eligibility)

The fellowship is for Nigerian undergraduates admitted into a tech-related course at one of the 12 participating universities.

Eligible Courses

•Computer Science

•Information Technology

•Cybersecurity

•Systems Engineering

•Software Engineering

•Other technology-related fields

Participating Universities in Nigeria

•University of Lagos (UNILAG)

•University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)

•Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria

•University of Benin (UNIBEN)

•Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)

•University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)

•Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED)

•University of Abuja (UNIABUJA)

•University of Uyo (UNIUYO)

•Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO)

•University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID)

•University of Ibadan (UI)

Documents to Prepare

Based on the previous cycle's guidelines, have these ready: your JAMB result and admission letter, school ID card, and WAEC certificate or result. Earlier cycles also stated that the Foundation considers gender diversity in selection. Meeting the criteria does not guarantee selection, because the process is competitive and merit-based. Read the requirements on the official portal before you start. 

Application Deadline

Monday, 7 December 2026.

One scholarship directory lists 4 December, so don't wait for the last day. The Foundation's general programme page may still link to an older 2025 form, so use only the 2026/2027 link below. 

How to Apply for the Airtel Africa Tech Fellowship 2026/2027

•Confirm you are admitted to an eligible course at one of the 12 universities.

•Scan your documents: JAMB result, admission letter, school ID and O'Level results.

•Open the application page: 👉 Airtel African Tech Fellowship 2026/2027

•Fill in your personal and academic details accurately.

•Upload your documents, review everything, and submit before the deadline.

•The application is also listed on the Afara Initiative portal.

Frequently Asked Questions

•Is the Airtel Africa Tech Fellowship free to apply for?

Yes. Never pay anyone to submit your application.

•Can students outside the 12 universities apply?

No. Only students admitted into the participating universities are eligible.

•Is it only for Computer Science students?

No. IT, Cybersecurity, Systems Engineering, Software Engineering and other technology-related fields also qualify.

Don't Miss the Next Opportunity

Scholarships like this one close fast. Bookmark Ganarious Blog and check back weekly for the latest scholarships, grants, fellowships and entrepreneurship opportunities for Nigerians and Africans.

Know a student who needs this? Share this post on WhatsApp today. Then come back to ganariousblog.com for more opportunities.

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 2027 YoungEd Fellowship for Education Professionals in Africa: Get Funding, Skills and Community

If you work in education in Africa and want funding to grow your career, the 2027 YoungEd Fellowship deserves your attention. The YoungEd Institute has opened its call for applications, and the window closes on November 30, 2026.

This guide covers what the fellowship is, who it's for, what you gain, and how to apply.

What Is the YoungEd Fellowship?

The YoungEd Fellowship is a capacity-building programme for young education sector professionals across Africa. Fellows get funding for online courses, masterclasses from industry experts, and think-tank groups for collaborative research. It is run by Young Educators for Africa Initiative, a non-profit working to prepare Africa for the future by empowering young African education professionals. (FAQs +2)

The programme's tagline sums it up: Get Funding. Gain Skills. Gain Community.

What Do Fellows Get?

Funding for online courses and certificates. Courses are chosen from the YoungEd Online Learning Library, a curated collection of courses from leading online learning platforms. 

Skills in foundational and specialised tracks. The tracks listed on the official site are Technology & Media, Curriculum Design & Delivery, Human Development & Psychology, Management & Finance, and Policy & Advocacy. 

Community with other education professionals across Africa, plus masterclasses and think-tank groups.

Applying and taking part are free. Never pay anyone to "secure" a place. 

Who Is the 2027 Fellowship For?

The fellowship is for education sector professionals in government and academic institutions. That covers people such as:

•Civil servants and officers in ministries, agencies and education boards

•Teachers, lecturers and researchers in universities, colleges and schools

•Education planners, curriculum developers and policy staff

•On past cycles, YoungEd's official page described the criteria like this: an African between 20 and 45 years old, working in the education sector, committed to collaborative research in one of the career tracks, and able to explain a clear vision for building a profession in education. The 2027 call may have updated criteria, so confirm the exact requirements on the application page before you apply.

Deadline for the 2027 YoungEd Fellowship

Applications close on November 30, 2026.

If the usual calendar holds, YoungEd's site shows award letters going out between January and February, with fellowship activities running from April to December. Treat those dates as a guide, not a promise.

How to Apply

•Visit the official application page (link below).

•Read the eligibility requirements carefully.

•Choose the career track that fits your work.

•Prepare a clear, specific vision for how the training will strengthen your work and your institution.

•Submit before November 30, 2026.

👉 Apply here: https://institute.youngedafrica.org/apply

Tips for a Strong Application

•Be specific. Name the skills you want and how they will change your work.

•Link your goals to your institution. Show how your growth benefits your ministry, school or university.

•Don't wait for the last day. Websites slow down near deadlines.

•Proofread. Ask a colleague to read it before you submit.

Frequently Asked Questions

•Is the YoungEd Fellowship free to apply for?

-Yes. Applying and taking part are free.

•When is the 2027 deadline?

-November 30, 2026.

•Who can apply?

-Education sector professionals in government and academic institutions across Africa. Check the official page for full requirements.

•What does the fellowship fund?

-Online courses and certificates, plus access to masterclasses and a community of professionals.

Don't Miss the Next Opportunity

Fellowships like this go quickly, and new calls open every week. Bookmark this blog and subscribe to our updates so you see the next grant, fellowship or scholarship before the deadline. Know a teacher, lecturer or civil servant who should apply? Share this post with them today. Come back tomorrow, because there's always something new on the blog.

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 UNDP Call for Innovators 2026: Apply for the $5,000 Community Innovation Grant

Do you have an idea that could solve a real problem in your community? The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) wants to hear from you. It has opened the Call for Innovators, with grants, mentorship and hands-on training for the best ideas.

What Is the UNDP Call for Innovators?

The call is the 2026 Northeast Community Innovation Challenge. It is supported by the Government of Japan and run with the Abdul Samad Rabiu International Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship at the University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID). It targets community challenges in Borno, Adamawa and Yobe states. 

In short, UNDP is looking for practical solutions that help communities recover and rebuild.

What Will Selected Innovators Get?

•A $5,000 grant for each of the five selected solutions, to develop and implement the idea.

•Intensive training and mentorship from experts.

•A Design and Prototyping Bootcamp at the Abdul Samad Rabiu International Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, UNIMAID.

•Four focus areas are eligible: agriculture and livestock, construction and shelter, health services, and education and skills development.

Both individuals and teams with innovative ideas are welcome. Women innovators are strongly encouraged to apply.

Your proposal should address a specific community problem in Borno, Adamawa or Yobe and fit at least one of the four focus areas. It should also name the people who will benefit and explain how the solution works. The announcement doesn't list extra requirements on age, qualifications, nationality or business registration, so read the portal instructions carefully. 

How to Apply

•Open the application portal: https://shorturl.at/HOzh5

•Read the requirements and instructions.

•Identify one clear community problem in Borno, Adamawa or Yobe.

•Describe your solution, who it helps and the impact you expect.

•Complete and submit the online form.

Application Deadline

Friday, 27 November 2026. That gives you 17 days from today. Don't wait for the last day, because portals get busy near deadlines.

Tips to Make Your Application Stand Out

•Be specific. "Reducing post-harvest losses for smallholder farmers" beats "helping agriculture."

•Show the community need. Explain who is affected and why it matters.

•Keep it practical. Reviewers want ideas that can be built and tested.

•Make it a team effort. Show who is doing what, if you're applying as a team.

•Proofread. Clear, simple writing wins.

Final Word

A $5,000 grant, expert mentorship and a prototyping bootcamp can turn a good idea into a working solution. If you've been waiting for a sign to start, this is it.

Apply now before 27 November 2026

Don't Miss the Next Opportunity!

New grants, fellowships and funding calls open every week, and many close quickly. Bookmark Ganarious Blog (ganariousblog.com) and visit regularly so you never miss one. Share this post with a friend or business partner who needs it, and tell us in the comments which focus area you're applying under

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 Drawbridge Grant 2026: How Nigerian Businesses Can Win ₦1.5 Million

Looking for funding to grow your business without a loan or giving up shares? The Drawbridge Grant 2026 may be your opportunity. Here is everything you need to know before you apply.

What Is the Drawbridge Grant?

ProMoat Capital has opened applications for its Drawbridge Grant, offering two Nigerian businesses ₦1.5 million in funding in January 2027. The first-place business receives ₦1,000,000 and the second-place business receives ₦500,000. 

The grant is not a loan. Beneficiaries will not be required to surrender equity, and any future investment discussions are separate and voluntary. The funds can support expansion, including buying stock, equipment and tools, marketing, and hiring staff. 

Grant at a Glance

Provider: ProMoat Capital

Total funding: ₦1,500,000

Winners: 2 businesses (₦1,000,000 and ₦500,000)

Cohort: January 2027

Repayment or equity: None

Deadline: November 30, 2026

Who Can Apply?

The grant is open to Nigerian businesses across sectors such as retail, agriculture, manufacturing, services and software. To qualify, you should:

-Operate a business in Nigeria

-Have a business registered with the CAC, either as a business name or a company 

-Have paying customers and generate actual revenue. One report says paying customers are not strictly required but improve your chances, so read the official terms.

-Be an existing business, not just an idea you plan to start 

-Create a free account on ProMoat Capital's small-business platform to submit and track your applications 

-Applicants must also be honest about how the money will be used. ProMoat says the funding should support business growth, not unrelated personal expenses or bills. 

How the Selection Works

Apply online. The form takes about 20 minutes, and you do not need a pitch deck or formal business plan. 

-Review and first interview. ProMoat reviews applications in December and contacts shortlisted businesses for a phone or video interview. 

-Final interviews. Finalists have further interviews in early January on their customers, business figures and plans for the grant. 

-Winners announced. The two winners are announced and paid by the end of January 2027. 

Deadline

Applications close on November 30, 2026. This is the date on the MSME Africa call for applications. Some earlier posts listed October 31, so confirm the final date on the official page before you submit. 

How to Apply

Go to the official page: https://www.promoatcapital.com/drawbridge-grant

-Create your free account on ProMoat Capital's small-business platform

-Complete and submit your application before the deadline

Beware of scams: ProMoat's terms say you should never pay anyone to apply, get shortlisted or win. 

Tips to Strengthen Your Application

Know your numbers: customers, monthly revenue and growth

Be specific about how ₦1M or ₦500,000 would grow your business

Keep your CAC documents and business details ready

Submit early to avoid last-minute portal problems

Not CAC Registered Yet?

Formal registration is a core requirement for many business grants. If your business is not registered, start now. At Ganarious Consults, we offer CAC registration services, so reach out via Instagram @GanariousConsults and get your business grant-ready.

Don't Miss the Next Opportunity

Grants like this close fast. Bookmark Ganarious Blog (ganariousblog.com) and visit weekly for the latest grants, fellowships and business opportunities for Nigerian and African entrepreneurs. Know someone who runs a business? Share this post with them, and drop a comment if you apply. We'd love to cheer you on.

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SMEDAN and Zoho are giving 25,000 Nigerian MSMEs free software credits from a ₦20 billion pool. See who qualifies, what you get and how to apply

 SMEDAN x Zoho Digital Credits 2026: How Nigerian MSMEs Can Get Up to ₦20 Billion in Free Business Software

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If you run a small business in Nigeria, the cost of good business software can feel out of reach. SMEDAN and Zoho have launched a programme to help with that, and applications are now open.

What Is the SMEDAN x Zoho Digital Credits Programme?

The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) has partnered with global software company Zoho to give wallet credits worth up to ₦20 billion to a maximum of 25,000 eligible MSMEs. The partnership was announced in late August 2026 and supports SMEDAN's GROW Nigeria strategy, which focuses on formalisation, access to finance and markets, productivity and digital adoption.

The credits are not cash. You cannot withdraw them to a bank account. They give you access to Zoho's cloud-based business tools, which include:

•Zoho Workplace: professional business email, file storage and team collaboration

•Zoho Books: accounting, invoicing and expense tracking

•Bigin by Zoho CRM: managing customers, sales and follow-ups

Access to 60+ Zoho applications in total, depending on what your business needs

The programme also includes training sessions, workshops, one-on-one consultations and technical support, so you learn to use the tools as well as receive them.

Who Is This Opportunity For?

The programme is for Nigerian micro, small and medium enterprises within the SMEDAN ecosystem. The key requirement is a valid 16-digit SMEDAN certificate ID. If you don't have one yet, you can register for free on the SMEDAN portal.

It suits:

•Small business owners still running on paper, WhatsApp chats or spreadsheets

•Fashion brands, retailers, food businesses and service providers who want to look more professional

•Startups and consultants who need a business email, invoicing or a customer database

How to Apply

Get your SMEDAN ID. If you don't have one, register for free at the official SMEDAN portal to get your 16-digit certificate ID.

Go to the application page: SMEDAN–Zoho Digital Credits application page

Verify your ID by entering your 16-digit SMEDAN certificate ID.

Complete Zoho onboarding. Choose the Zoho apps you want and finish the sign-up to access your credits.

👉 Apply here: https://smedan.gov.ng/zoho/

Application Deadline

No closing date has been published on the official channels. Since credits are capped at 25,000 businesses, don't wait. Apply as early as you can.

A Safety Reminder

The programme is free. Do not pay any agent to "secure your slot," and do not share personalised Zoho sign-up links. Only apply through the official SMEDAN page above.

Tips to Get the Most Out of It

-Get your SMEDAN ID sorted first, since it is the main verification step.

-Choose tools that solve a real problem, such as invoicing, email or customer tracking.

-Attend the training sessions. The software only helps if you use it.

Don't Miss the Next Opportunity

Grants, fellowships and funding calls like this close quickly, and new ones open every week. Bookmark this blog, subscribe to our updates and check back often so you never miss a deadline. Know a business owner who needs this? Share this post with them today.

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 UN Young Professionals Programme 2026: A Paid Career at the United Nations

Many young graduates dream of working for the United Nations. The UN Young Professionals Programme (YPP) 2026 is one of the most direct routes in, and no work experience is required.

What Is the UN Young Professionals Programme?

The YPP is the UN Secretariat's yearly recruitment programme for talented early-career professionals who want to become international civil servants. It combines a competitive exam with professional development once you are recruited.

The programme exists to bring in talent from countries that are under-represented or unrepresented at the UN Secretariat. Successful candidates can be offered a two-year fixed-term contract at the P-1 or P-2 level.

2026 Exam Area: Development and Sustainability

This year's exam covers Economics, Statistics, Social Affairs, Environment and Sustainable Development. Roles are mainly in the Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA), UNCTAD and the UN Regional Commissions. Duty stations can include New York, Geneva, Vienna, Nairobi, Addis Ababa, Bangkok, Beirut and Santiago.

Who Can Apply?

To be eligible, you must:

•Be a national of a participating country. About 47 countries take part in 2026, and the list changes every year.

•Be 32 or younger, meaning born on or after 1 January 1994.

•Hold at least a bachelor's degree relevant to the exam area.

•Be fluent in English or French.

•Have no work experience required.

•Pay no application fee.

Important: Nationality is the first thing to check. I could not confirm from the sources I found whether Nigeria is on the 2026 list, so confirm it on the official page before you start.

Key Dates

-Applications opened: 16 October 2026

-Deadline: 30 November 2026, 11:59 pm New York time

-Application screening: December to January

-Exams: February to May 2027

How to Apply

-Check the participating countries list on the official YPP page.

-Create or log in to your account on the UN careers portal (Inspira).

-Find the 2026 YPP job opening for Development and Sustainability.

-Complete the online application and motivation statement.

-Review everything and submit before the deadline.

👉 Apply here: careers.un.org/ypp

What Happens After You Apply?

Applications are screened against the eligibility criteria. Shortlisted candidates sit the exam, and those who pass go onto a recruitment roster. They are selected from that roster as suitable vacancies open.

If you meet the requirements, this is a rare chance to start a UN career without prior experience. Don't wait until the last week, because portal traffic and technical problems tend to peak near the deadline.

Don't Miss the Next Opportunity!

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 MoFund Africa Impact Academy Cohort 2 (2026): Free Training and a Chance at Up to $50,000

What is the Africa Impact Academy?

MoFund Africa has opened applications for Cohort 2 of its Africa Impact Academy (AIA), a free 10-month programme that helps African-founded organisations strengthen their operations and prepare to attract funding. MoFund describes its model as building organisations that are fundable and producing the due diligence funders need. 

What do participants get?

•Three in-person workshops, an intern sourced and paid by MoFund, and a chance to pitch to investors and industry participants. 

•Possible consideration for grants or debt financing after graduation.

•Funding: The Academy does not guarantee funding. Graduates may be considered depending on impact potential, participation and the quality of information submitted. The potential range is $5,000 to $50,000. In the first cohort, 10 organisations received grants between US$5,000 and US$20,000.  (Apply for MoFund Africa Impact Academy 2026 — With Grant Opportunities +2)

Who is it for?

The Academy is for organisations, not individuals seeking personal grants. You qualify if your organisation:

•Is African-founded, legally registered, operational for at least two years, and led by a full-time founder or chief executive. 

•Is based in Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa or Zambia. 

•Works in health, education, energy or agriculture. 

MoFund expects to admit about 100 organisations. 

Deadline

-5 November 2026. Sources list slightly different times, so don't cut it close:

-11:59pm East Africa Time (EAT)  

-9:59pm West Africa Time (WAT) 

-If you are in Nigeria, treat 9:59pm WAT as your cut-off.

What to prepare before you apply

Have your income figures for the last two financial years and your customer or participant numbers for the past 12 months ready. The form takes about an hour, and shortlisted applicants may be asked for further verification. 

How to apply

👉 Apply here: Africa Impact Academy Cohort 2 application form https://mofund.sikaiq.com/campaigns/aia-cohort-2-application-form

More details are on the MoFund Africa website. https://mofundafrica.org/

Many strong organisations never receive funding because they are not "fundable" yet: records, governance and impact data aren't ready. This Academy is built to fix that, and it is free. Even without a grant, you leave with stronger systems and investor-ready information.

Don't miss the next opportunity

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 I AM NALA Fellowship 2027 for Women Survivors of TFGBV: How to Apply

Are you a young woman who has survived technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV), or a woman leader working in politics or advocacy? Nalafem Academy has opened applications for the I AM NALA Fellowship on Women Survivors of TFGBV. This guide covers what the fellowship is, who can apply, the deadline and how to submit your application.

What Is the I AM NALA Fellowship on Women Survivors of TFGBV?

The I AM NALA Fellowship is a leadership programme run by Nalafem Academy, the learning arm of the Nala Feminist Collective. This edition focuses on women survivors of technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV). That includes online harassment, sexualised abuse, defamation, threats and coordinated smear campaigns.

The topic is closely tied to women's political participation. Nalafem has published work showing that online harassment, sexualised abuse, defamation, threats and smear campaigns are routinely used to undermine women in politics, silence their voices and deter them from public life. This fellowship supports women who have lived through that violence, or who lead the response to it.  

This call is open alongside Nalafem's separate I AM NALA Fellowship on Women, Peace and Security. Applications for that one have closed.

About Nalafem

Nalafem is a Pan-African platform of women politicians and activists working for the liberation of African women and girls. It was founded in 2021. It has hosted three summits and 22 advocacy missions across Africa, bringing together over 500 leaders from 35 countries. Its earlier fellowship cohorts graduated 15 fellows from nine African countries, many now working as aspiring politicians committed to feminist leadership and policy reform. 

Who Can Apply? (Eligibility)

The fellowship is for:

•20 young women aged 18–40

•Survivors of TFGBV

•Politicians currently running for office or who have run for office before

•Political leaders engaged in national, regional or global advocacy

•Student leaders

Values Nalafem Is Looking For

Applicants need to embody Nalafem's values:

•Solidarity

•Social justice

•Dignity and equity

•Decolonial feminism

•Feminist Pan-Africanism

When you write your application, show how these values appear in your work, your advocacy or your lived experience.

Application Deadline

Applications close on 31 January 2027. That gives you a little under three months. Don't wait until the last week, because fellowship portals tend to slow down near the deadline.

How to Apply

Go to the official registration link: bit.ly/nalafellowTFGBV

Complete the application form with accurate details.

Submit before 31 January 2027.

For other Nalafem programmes and updates, visit nalafem.org.

Tips for a Strong Application

•Be specific. Describe your leadership, advocacy or political experience with real examples.

•Connect to the values. Show where solidarity, social justice and feminist Pan-Africanism appear in what you do.

•Tell your story with care. If you are a survivor, share only what you are comfortable sharing.

•Proofread. Ask someone you trust to read it before you submit.

•Know the cohort. Only 20 places are available, so a focused, honest application stands out.

Don't Miss the Next Opportunity

New fellowships, grants and scholarships open every week, and many close faster than you expect. Bookmark Ganarious Blog and check back every week for fresh, verified opportunities for Nigerian and African women and entrepreneurs. Know a woman who qualifies for this one? Share this post with her. Then tell us in the comments which opportunity you're applying for next.

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 Free PR Training for 5,000 Nigerian Women: Queen Moremi Cohort 3 Is Open

Great work deserves to be seen. If you run a business or build a career in Nigeria, the Queen Moremi free PR training may be the boost you need. Cohort 3 is open for registration, and it costs nothing.

What Is the Queen Moremi Free PR Training?

Queen Moremi Women Initiative is the nonprofit arm of the women's empowerment platform Queen Moremi. It runs a free Public Relations training programme for female SME founders and career women, with the aim of equipping 5,000 Nigerian women with practical PR, storytelling and communications skills. 

The programme covers:

•Public relations and personal branding•

•Media engagement

•Strategic storytelling

•Digital communications

•Using artificial intelligence for visibility and growth 

Participants learn through expert-led sessions, learning resources and mentorship. 

 Moremi Elekwachi, the founder, as facilitator. It also shows the training is run in partnership with the Presidential Community Engagement Office (South-West), led by Moremi Ojudu, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement (South-West). 

SARA by Wema, Wema Bank's women-focused proposition, joined as Strategic Sponsor for this cohort. Participants will also receive financial literacy education covering savings, business banking, access to finance and long-term planning. 

Why It Matters

Many women build valuable businesses and skills but struggle to communicate their value. In the founder's words, visibility creates access to customers, partnerships, funding and professional opportunities. Good PR skills let you pitch yourself, tell your story and build trust without paying an agency. 

Who Can Apply?

The programme is open to women across Nigeria who want to build their personal or business brands through PR. That includes: 

•Female SME founders and entrepreneurs

•Career women and professionals

•Women in any state, since the third and fourth cohorts run mainly through virtual sessions 

Is It Really Free?

Yes. The programme is free for eligible participants, with no application fees or training costs. Successful participants also receive supporting resources and certificates on completion. 

Cohort 3 Timeline and Application Deadline

Training period: October to December 2026.

How to Apply

Visit the official registration portal: https://wema-queen-moremi.alat.ng/

Fill in your details accurately.

Submit and watch your email and phone for updates.

Tip: Some applicants on Instagram have asked whether a NIN or BVN is required. The sources I found don't say, so check the registration page and the programme's official Instagram pages (@moremiojudu and @queenmoremi) for the requirements.

Final Thoughts

Free, practical PR training with certification and financial literacy support is rare. If you want your business or career to be more visible, apply today.

Don't Miss the Next Opportunity

New grants, fellowships and free training programmes open every week, and many close within days. Bookmark Ganarious Blog, subscribe to our updates, and check back often so you never miss an opportunity again. Know a woman who needs this? Share this post with her.

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 Philanthropy University Free Online Courses 2026: Social Impact & NGO Leadership Training (Apply Now)

Philanthropy University offers free online courses in fundraising, monitoring and evaluation, and nonprofit leadership. Find out who can enroll, the deadline, and how to apply.

Running an NGO, a community initiative, or a social enterprise takes more than passion. You also need fundraising skills, solid data, and strong leadership. The trouble is that quality training is expensive and hard to reach.

Philanthropy University (PhilanthropyU) is a free option. If you work in the social sector in Nigeria, Africa, or anywhere else, this is worth your time.

What Is Philanthropy University?

Philanthropy University is a free online learning platform that uses technology to train, connect and fund leaders of local social impact organizations in under-resourced communities.  

It began as a partnership with the Haas School of Business at UC Berkeley. Berkeley-Haas incubated the initiative, and its first seven non-credit courses covered key skills such as fundraising. The platform has since grown. It combines online courses, peer-to-peer knowledge exchange and data-driven insights.  

What Will You Learn? (Course Topics)

The catalog changes over time, so check the website for the current list. Some of the free courses include:

-Introduction to Fundraising: a beginner course for organizations new to fundraising and individuals just starting to consider how to raise funds. No previous learning or experience is required.  

-Fundraising: Connecting with Donors: teaches that donor relationships are a two-way street, with lessons from a seasoned fundraiser. 

-Fundraising Strategies: covers financial readiness, funding sources, event planning, grant proposals and crowdfunding campaigns.  

-Planning for Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E): shows how successful projects plan for data collection, management, analysis and use, and you build an M&E plan for your own project as you go.  

-Social Startup Success: covers five skills for growing an early-stage nonprofit: idea testing, impact measurement, fundraising, collective leadership and storytelling.  

In short, the platform covers scaling social impact, fundraising and resource mobilization, monitoring and evaluation, and organizational development.

Who Is This For? (Eligibility)

You can benefit from Philanthropy University if you are:

•An NGO or nonprofit professional

•A social impact leader or founder

•Part of a civil society organization or a community advocate

•An individual who wants stronger development-sector skills

•A project manager, M&E officer or researcher who collects or uses data

•The M&E course is aimed at project implementers. That includes project managers, M&E specialists, researchers, or anybody who will collect, manage, analyze or use data. 

Is It Really Free? What About Certificates?

Yes. The platform says all its current courses are free to all learners, including access to the course and the certificate of completion. Some PhilU+ (beta) courses may carry a price, but those are completely optional.  

On certificates, the M&E course page says learners who complete it are eligible for a Certificate of Achievement through Berkeley Haas. To earn it, you need more than 50% of the possible points on quizzes, post-assessments and assignments. Requirements can differ by course, so read each course page before you enroll. Also note that the University is a non-degree, diploma or credit granting initiative, so learners do not earn academic credit.  

Application Deadline

There is no fixed deadline. The courses are self-paced, so you can enroll when you are ready and learn on your own schedule. Don't wait too long, though. Start now, because the skills you build will help your work for years.

How to Apply (Step by Step)

Visit the official website: https://philanthropyu.org/

•Create a free account.

•Browse the course catalog and pick a course that fits your goals.

•Click Enroll and start learning at your own pace.

•Complete the quizzes and assignments to qualify for your certificate.

Apply here: https://philanthropyu.org/

Tips to Get the Most Out of the Courses

Pick one course at a time. Finishing one beats abandoning five.

Apply what you learn immediately. Use the M&E course to build a real plan for a real project, and use the fundraising courses to improve your next proposal.

Add your certificate to your LinkedIn profile, CV and grant applications. Funders like to see ongoing learning.

Share the opportunity with your team, your partners and other community leaders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Philanthropy University free?

Yes. Current courses are free, including the certificate of completion. A few optional PhilU+ beta courses may have a price.

Can Nigerians and other Africans apply?

Yes. The platform is built for local social impact leaders in under-resourced communities, and it is open to learners worldwide.

Do I need a degree or experience?

It depends on the course. The Introduction to Fundraising course needs no previous experience. Some intermediate courses expect basic background knowledge.

What is the deadline?

There is no deadline. The courses are self-paced.

Final Thoughts

Philanthropy University gives NGO leaders, founders and development professionals a free way to build practical skills in fundraising, data, strategy and leadership. If you want to grow your organization or your career in the social sector, create your account today.

👉 Enroll now: https://philanthropyu.org/

🔔 Don't Miss the Next Opportunity!

Grants, fellowships, scholarships and free training programs are posted here every week, and many close within days. Bookmark this blog, subscribe to our updates, and check back every week so you never miss an application window. Know someone in the NGO or social impact space? Share this post with them, because your share could change their career. Then tell us in the comments which course you're starting with. 

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 WACSI Next Generation Internship Programme 2027: Fully Funded Opportunity for Young West Africans

Are you a recent graduate or early-career professional looking for real experience in the civil society and development sector? The West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI) has opened applications for its Next Generation Internship Programme (NGIP) 2027, and the deadline is 8 November 2026. That is only days away, so keep reading and get your application ready.

What Is the WACSI Next Generation Internship Programme?

WACSI introduced the Next Generation Internship Programme in January 2008. It was created to give young West Africans structured, practical capacity-building and to develop the next generation of African scholars and practitioners.

Interns are fully involved in WACSI's day-to-day work for six months. They build skills in leadership, knowledge management, programme management and the critical development issues facing West Africa.

Who Can Apply? (Eligible Countries)

The 2027 call is open to nationals of:

🇧🇯 Benin

🇲🇱 Mali

🇨🇲 Cameroon

🇹🇩 Chad

🇬🇭 Ghana

🇳🇬 Nigeria

Available Internship Positions

•Capacity Development Intern

•Knowledge Management Intern

•Policy Influencing and Advocacy Intern

•WACSI Node Nigeria Intern

•Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL) Intern

•Communications Intern

Eligibility and Qualifications

•Applicants must be young graduates or early-career professionals with at least a first degree in a relevant field:

•Capacity Development, Knowledge Management, Policy Influencing and Advocacy, and WACSI Node Nigeria: International Affairs, Political Science, Public Policy, Law, Development Studies, Mass Communication or a related field.

•Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL): Statistics, Data Management, Mathematics, Data Science and Analytics, Project Management, Economics or a related field.

•Communications: Mass Communication, Development Communication, International Relations, Social Psychology, Graphic Design, Marketing or a related field.

Skills WACSI expects from all applicants:

•Genuine interest in civil society and non-profit organisation management

•Strong research, writing and communication skills, both verbal and written

•Proficiency in Microsoft Office and strong internet research skills

•Bilingual skills (French and English, or English and Portuguese)

•Nice to have: excellent interpersonal skills, the ability to work well under pressure with minimal supervision in a multicultural environment, and a proactive, willing-to-learn attitude.

Benefits of the WACSI Internship 2027

The internship is fully funded. WACSI covers:

✅ Return flight between your home country and the placement location

✅ Furnished accommodation

✅ Lunch on working days

✅ A monthly stipend

Where Will You Be Based?

•Interns from Benin, Mali, Cameroon, Chad and Ghana will spend a substantial part of the internship at the WACSI office in Accra, Ghana.

•The successful Nigerian intern will be based at the WACSI Node Office in Abuja. Because no accommodation is provided there, applicants must already be living in Abuja.

Internship Duration

The internship runs for six months, from January to July 2027. Interns who cannot complete the six months must refund the total cost of the internship package to WACSI, so only apply if you can commit to the full period.

How to Apply

Read the full call on the official WACSI page.

-Prepare your CV/Resume and a strong motivation letter tailored to the role you want.

-Email both documents to the application address listed on the official call page.

-Use the programme name and role as your email subject, for example NGIP – Knowledge Management or NGIP – WACSI Node.

👉 Official application page:https://wacsi.org/call-for-applications-next-generation-internship-programme-5/

Application Deadline

8 November 2026. Because of the volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.

Tips for a Strong Application

•Tailor your motivation letter. Explain why you want this role and what you will bring to WACSI's work.

•Show your interest in civil society. Mention volunteering, advocacy, community projects or relevant coursework.

•Highlight language skills. Bilingual applicants have an advantage.

•Follow the subject-line format exactly. Errors here can get your email overlooked.

•Send early. Don't wait for the last hour of the deadline.

Fully funded internships with real mentorship and exposure to the development sector are rare. If you meet the requirements, this is a strong way to build your career in civil society, policy, communications or research. Prepare your documents now and apply before 8 November 2026.

📌 Don't Miss the Next Opportunity!

New grants, fellowships, scholarships and internships open every week, and many close fast. Bookmark this blog and visit regularly so you never miss a deadline. Share this post with a friend who needs it, and tell us in the comments if you plan to apply!

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