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

SMEDAN Zoho digital credits, Zoho wallet credits Nigeria, SMEDAN ID, free business software for Nigerian MSMEs

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!

New grants, fellowships, jobs and programmes appear every week. Bookmark Ganarious Blog, check back often, and share this post with a friend who needs it. Which opportunity should we cover next? Tell us in the comments!

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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

New grants, fellowships and funding calls open every week, and many close within days. Bookmark Ganarious Blog, subscribe, and check back every week so you never find out about a deadline too late. Know someone running a business or NGO in health, education, energy or agriculture? Share this post with them today.

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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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GOOGLE SKILLS: FREE GENERATIVE AI COURSE FOR BEGINNERS

 Introduction to Generative AI: A Free Google Course for Beginners

Tools like Gemini and ChatGPT are now part of everyday work, but many people still don't understand how they work. The Introduction to Generative AI course on Google Skills is a good place to start.

What Is This Course About?

It is an introductory microlearning course. You learn what generative AI is, how it is used, and how it differs from traditional machine learning. It also covers Google tools for building your own generative AI apps.  

Who Is It For?

-Entrepreneurs and small business owners

-Students and graduates

-Content creators, marketers, and branding professionals

-Anyone curious about AI who has no technical background

Is It Really Free?

Yes. Google Cloud courses of this type can be accessed at no cost, and you get a completion badge when you finish. The course is short, and one source says it takes about 45 minutes. Note that you get a badge, not a full professional certificate.  

How to Enrol

👉 Start the course here: https://www.skills.google/course_templates/536

Final Thoughts

You can't use AI well without understanding the basics. This free course is an easy first step. Take it, add the badge to your LinkedIn profile, and move on to the next course.

Have you tried generative AI tools for your business? Tell us in the comments

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 FG TVET Initiative Cohort 3: Free Skills Training and a Monthly Stipend

Want a practical skill, a certificate and some income while you learn? The Federal Government's TVET Initiative has opened Cohort 3 (Batch C).

What is the TVET Initiative?

The Federal Ministry of Education has opened applications for Batch C, also known as Cohort 3, of its TVET Initiative, offering free skills training and a monthly stipend. Training is delivered through certified centres across the country, including federal and state technical colleges, state-owned institutions and registered private vocational centres. 

Benefits

•Tuition-free training, monthly stipends, practical instruction and recognised certification. 

•Graduates may receive starter packs and access to business loans. Job placement is not guaranteed. 

•About the stipend: The campaign flyer says up to ₦30,000. Earlier reports on this programme put the stipend at ₦22,500, and the Cohort 3 announcement in June said ₦22,500. Confirm the exact amount on the portal. 

Training pathways

•Short-Term Certificate (STC): six months, for beginners, school leavers and people without formal education. 

•Vocational Education and Innovation (VEI): one year, for applicants with some education or prior informal training. 

•Trades include: electrical installation, welding and fabrication, solar PV installation, plumbing, automobile repair, fashion design, hospitality, digital media production, beauty therapy and livestock farming. 

Who can apply?

Nigerians seeking vocational skills, open to applicants in all states.

•STC: a valid NIN and BVN. No prior educational qualification is required. 

•VEI: Recognition of Prior Learning, a First School Leaving Certificate, or a certificate from non-formal training such as community or NGO programmes.

How to apply

Visit the portal: https://www.tvet.education.gov.ng/signup

•Create an account and choose STC or VEI.

•Fill in the form and upload your documents.

•Pick your trade and preferred training centre, then submit.

•Your centre choice is subject to availability and approval.

Deadline

No closing date has been published. Slots are limited, so apply as early as you can.

Stay alert

Apply only on the official portal. Fraudsters often exploit popular government programmes.

Don't miss the next one

New grants, fellowships and empowerment programmes appear every week. Follow Ganarious Blog at ganariousblog.com and check back regularly so you never miss a deadline. Know someone who needs a skill? Share this post with them.

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GOOGLE CLOUD FREE COURSE: LARGE LANGUAGE MODELS: UNDERSTAND THE TECHNOLOGY BEHIND AI CHATBOTS

 Introduction to Large Language Models: Understand the Technology Behind AI Chatbots

Every time you use an AI chatbot, a large language model (LLM) is working behind the scenes. Google's Introduction to Large Language Models course explains how they work and where they are useful, in simple terms.

What Will You Learn?

It is an introductory micro-learning course. It explores what LLMs are, covers common use cases, and teaches how to use prompt tuning to improve LLM performance. By the end, you will understand why AI gives the answers it does, and why some prompts work better than others. 

Why Does This Matter for You?

•You will write better prompts and get better results

•You will know where AI helps and where it falls short

•You will have a base for more advanced AI courses

Is It Free?

Yes. Google's AI courses are microlearning courses, and you receive a digital completion badge when you finish. The course is free, but the badge is not a full certificate. (tcea)

How to Enrol

👉 Start the course here: https://www.skills.google/course_templates/539

Final Thoughts

If you use AI for content, marketing, or business tasks, understanding how LLMs work gives you an advantage. Take this course next after the Generative AI introduction.

Which AI tool do you use most often? Share in the comments.

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GOOGLE CLOUD FREE AI IMAGE CREATION COURSE

 Introduction to Image Generation: How AI Creates Images

AI image tools are changing design, branding, and content creation. Google's Introduction to Image Generation course explains the technology behind them.

What Is This Course About?

The course focuses on diffusion models. These models underpin many state-of-the-art image generation tools on Google Cloud, and the course covers the theory behind them and how to train and deploy them on Vertex AI.

Who Should Take It?

•Designers, brand strategists, and content creators

•Marketers who want to understand AI visual tools

•Tech-curious learners who want to know how AI "draws"

This one is a little more technical than the first two. If you are new to AI, start with the Generative AI introduction.

Is It Free?

Yes. The course is free, and Google Cloud gives a completion badge afterwards. 

How to Enrol

👉 Start the course here: https://www.skills.google/course_templates/541

Final Thoughts

You don't need to become an engineer. But knowing how AI image tools work helps you use them better in your brand, fashion, or content work. Start today.

Would you use AI-generated images in your business? Tell us below.

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 Nigeria School of Community Networks 2026 (6th NSCN): Call for Applications

Do you want to help connect communities that big telecom companies have left behind? The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has opened applications for the Sixth Nigeria School of Community Networks (NSCN), and Nigerians are eligible to apply.

Quick Overview

Programme: 6th Nigeria School of Community Networks (NSCN 2026)

Organisers: CITAD, with the Community Network for Nigeria (CNN) and the Association for Progressive Communications (APC)

Theme: Building Skills for Inclusive, Connected and Digitally Empowered Communities

Location: Kano, Nigeria

Application deadline: 23rd November, 2026

What Is the Nigeria School of Community Networks?

The NSCN is a programme designed to build capacity in community-driven connectivity, advocacy, and ICT for development. In simple terms, it trains ordinary Nigerians to help bring internet access to places that commercial providers consider unprofitable. 

CITAD launched the first school in December 2021, with the aim of connecting unconnected areas where conventional market players find deployment unprofitable. The school also aims to train champions with technical skills to design, deploy and manage community networks. 

The programme has grown steadily since then. Participants in the fourth edition completed a two-week training. The 5th edition concluded recently, marking five years of equipping young Nigerians to deploy community-driven connectivity solutions in underserved regions. The 6th edition builds on that record. 

Why This Programme Matters

Millions of Nigerians in rural and underserved areas still lack reliable internet. Nigeria currently has no national policy on community networks, though NCC participation in the 5th edition signals growing recognition of community-driven models. Graduates of the school are the people who will help close that gap in their own communities.  

Who Can Apply? (Eligibility)

You are eligible if you:

✅ Are 18 years or older

✅ Hold at least a secondary school certificate

✅ Belong to a community association (a community group, cooperative, youth or women's group, etc.)

Added advantages (not compulsory):

•IT skills

•Basic ICT, advocacy or community engagement skills

•Female applicants are especially encouraged to apply.

Who Is This Programme For?

The NSCN is a good fit if you are:

•A community leader or volunteer who wants better connectivity for your area

•A youth or women's group member interested in digital inclusion

•A tech enthusiast or ICT student who wants to use your skills for community development

•An advocate or NGO worker focused on the digital divide

•You don't need to be an engineer. Community engagement and advocacy skills count in your favour.

Logistics: What You Should Know Before Applying

Venue: Kano. Participants must arrange their own transportation and accommodation.

Feeding: CITAD will provide it.

Budget for travel and lodging before you apply.

How to Apply for NSCN 2026

Check that you meet the requirements above.

Open the official application link: https://bit.ly/NSCN26

Fill in the form accurately, including your education level and community association.

Submit on or before 23rd November, 2026.

Tip: Be specific about your community association and what you'd do with the skills afterwards. For earlier editions, applicants were asked what contribution they would make to community networks in their communities. That wasn't listed for the 6th edition, but expect similar questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

-Is the Nigeria School of Community Networks open to Nigerians?

-Yes. It's run in Nigeria for Nigerian applicants who meet the requirements.

-Is there an application fee?

-The flyer lists no application fee. Only apply through the official link above.

-Do I need an IT background?

-No. IT skills are an advantage, but basic ICT, advocacy or community engagement skills also count.

-Is accommodation provided?

-No. Participants cover their own transport and accommodation in Kano. CITAD provides feeding.

What is the deadline?

23rd November, 2026.

The NSCN gives you practical skills and a network of people working to close Nigeria's digital divide. If you belong to a community association and want to make a difference, apply before the deadline.

👉 Apply now: https://bit.ly/NSCN26

Don't Miss the Next Opportunity!

New grants, fellowships, scholarships and training programmes open every week, and many close within days. Bookmark this blog, subscribe to our updates, and check back every week so you never miss one. Know someone in a community association who should apply? Share this post with them today. 

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