Pulitzer Center Lavwa Lenpak African Content Creator Program 2026 ($500 Participation Stipend)

If you create content on TikTok, Instagram, or Facebook and you've ever wanted to turn serious, public-interest issues into content your audience actually stops scrolling for, this one is for you. The Pulitzer Center, through its Africa Outreach Program, has opened applications for the second cohort of Lavwa Lenpak, a training and mentorship program for African content creators built around investigative journalism.

What Is Lavwa Lenpak?

"Lavwa Lenpak" loosely translates to "the voice that leaves a mark" — and that's exactly the point of the program. Lavwa Lenpak exists to bridge the gap between the deep, well-researched journalism the Pulitzer Center supports and the everyday African social media audiences who may never read a full investigative report but will absolutely watch a well-made reel or TikTok about it.

Through the program, selected creators are trained to take complex journalistic investigations and turn them into accessible, engaging digital content — think explainers, mini-documentaries, skits, or interactive posts — that make public-interest issues easy to understand and share.

This is the second cohort of the program. The first edition focused on ocean conservation. The 2026 edition is dedicated to governance and human rights in the forestry sector, with a particular focus on the Congo Basin — one of the world's most important (and most threatened) rainforest regions.

Who Is It For?

Lavwa Lenpak is looking for 10 content creators across Africa. You're a good fit if:

-You create content on TikTok, Instagram, or Facebook

-You already have an established online community and engaged audience

-You're genuinely interested in issues like governance, transparency, accountability, natural resources, forest protection, human rights, social justice, or community rights

-You're open to learning content creation methods inspired by investigative and public-interest journalism

-You're able to simplify complex topics without dumbing them down

-You're based in, or create content about, the Congo Basin or Africa more broadly

-Importantly, you don't need to already be a journalist. The program is open to content creators, issue-based influencers, journalist-creators, and community voices — the common thread is an engaged audience and a genuine interest in telling stories that matter.

What You Get as a Participant

•Direct access to Pulitzer Center-supported reporting and journalistic resources on forest governance and human rights

•Collaboration opportunities with journalists, plus personalized feedback on your content

•Masterclasses on disinformation, the role of trusted voices, creative storytelling, and scriptwriting

•A $500 participation stipend, paid at the end of the program once all required deliverables are approved

•The chance to be part of a wider conversation on accountability and forest governance across Africa, with visibility on Pulitzer Center platforms

Application Deadline

Applications close on August 26, 2026.

How to Apply

Interested creators can find full details and the application form on the Pulitzer Center's official page: pulitzercenter.org/blog/call-applications-lavwa-lenpak-2026

If you've been looking for a way to grow your influence while contributing to something bigger than your usual content calendar — and get paid for it — this is a solid opportunity worth your shot. Don't sleep on the deadline.

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 NiYA x Cascador Founders Programme 2026: Apply Now for Up to ₦5 Million in Non-Dilutive Funding for Young Nigerian Entrepreneurs

Quick Facts: Federal Ministry of Youth Development (FMYD) grant program via the Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA) | Up to ₦5 million per founder, non-dilutive | For Nigerian founders aged 18–35 | Application link: startup.niya.gov.ng/fmyd/grants | Deadline: 22 August 2026

If you are a young Nigerian entrepreneur with a registered business, a product already in the market, and a hunger for capital that won't cost you equity, the Federal Government just opened a door you should not ignore. The NiYA x Cascador Founders Programme is a new grant application portal from the Federal Ministry of Youth Development (FMYD), delivered through the Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA), in partnership with Cascador, a Nigeria-focused platform that backs growth-stage founders.

Here is everything you need to know: what it is, who qualifies, the documents to prepare, and how to apply before time runs out.

What Is the NiYA x Cascador Founders Programme?

The NiYA x Cascador Founders Programme is a pilot cohort designed to close the gap between youth entrepreneurship training and real access to capital. It was announced to mark International Youth Day 2026, under the theme "Different Contexts, Common Aspirations."

The programme will select 20 early-stage Nigerian youth founders, including many without formal business registration or a financial track record at the point of entry, and take them through an intensive 4-week curriculum covering:

-Business fundamentals

-Investment readiness

-Pitch preparation and mentorship

-At the end of the four weeks, participants present at a Pitch Day before a panel of judges. The 8 top-performing founders will each walk away with up to ₦5 million in non-dilutive funding from Cascador — meaning no equity is given up in exchange for the money — plus an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) solution to help manage and scale the business going forward.

The total programme envelope is reported at ₦40,000,000, and it is officially tagged the NiYA Startup Pitch Fund (Reference: GAP0000003).

All 20 participants, whether or not they make the final 8, become NiYA alumni with priority consideration for future opportunities. The pilot runs primarily in Abuja, combined with virtual sessions and one-on-one mentorship.

Who Is This Grant For?

This opportunity is not open to everyone. Based on the official eligibility criteria published by FMYD and NiYA, you should apply if you meet all of the following:

-You've completed at least one course on the Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA) platform.

-Youth ownership: Your business is at least 51% owned by founder(s) aged 18–35.

-Youth leadership: At least one founder aged 18–35 works full-time in the business in a leadership role.

-Registered in Nigeria: Your business is registered and operating in Nigeria.

-Product/service already launched, with evidence that customers are actually using it — this is not for idea-stage businesses.

Operating for at least 6 months.

-Positive-impact sector: Your business creates economic or social value. Businesses in restricted industries (e.g. tobacco, gambling) are not eligible.

-Clear use of funds: You can show credibly how the funding will accelerate growth.

-Full availability: You can commit fully to the 4-week programme and the final pitch.

-State/location note: the programme is open nationwide to Nigerian-registered businesses, though the in-person component is centred in Abuja.

Documents You'll Need Before You Start

Have these ready so you don't lose time mid-application:

•Business Registration Certificate (CAC)

•Clear passport photograph with a white background

•National Identification Number (NIN) slip

•Pitch deck

•Certificate of Completion for a NiYA Academy course

If you haven't completed a NiYA course yet, that is your very first step — it's a stated eligibility requirement, not optional.

Deadline for Submission

Applications opened on Wednesday, 19 August 2026, and the portal closes on 22 August 2026. That is a short window, so if you're eligible, treat this as urgent and apply today rather than waiting.

How to Apply

Interested and qualified applicants should apply directly through the official portal:

👉 https://startup.niya.gov.ng/fmyd/grants

Make sure your CAC certificate, NIN slip, passport photo, pitch deck, and NiYA course certificate are ready to upload before you begin, so you can complete the form in one sitting.

Final Word

Non-dilutive funding opportunities like this — where you keep 100% of your business — are rare, especially at this scale for early-stage Nigerian founders. If you already have a registered business with real customers and you meet the age and ownership criteria, don't sit on this. With the window closing on 22 August 2026, apply now and prepare your documents immediately.

Stay with Ganarious Blog for more verified grant, fellowship, and opportunity alerts for Nigerian and African entrepreneurs.

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 Call for Abstracts: Young Historians National Undergraduate History Competition and Symposium 2026

Undergraduate History students in Nigerian universities have a fresh opportunity to get their research published, win cash prizes, and present at a national symposium — but the window is tight, so read on and act fast.

The Young Historians Initiative for Historical Education, in partnership with IFRA-Nigeria, has opened a Call for Abstracts for the Young Historians National Undergraduate History Competition and Symposium.

What Is It For?

The competition invites undergraduate History students to critically engage with one of Nigeria's most pressing challenges through the lens of historical scholarship. This year's theme is:

"Historical Perspectives on Insecurity and Insurgency in Nigeria."

With Nigeria currently confronting deepening insecurity — insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, and communal violence — the call challenges students to interrogate an important historical question: to what extent are these challenges new, and to what extent do they reflect recurring patterns in Nigeria's past? It's an invitation to move beyond the headlines and situate today's crises within a longer historical arc.

Who Is It For?

The call is open to undergraduate History students in Nigerian universities.

Cash Prizes

1st Prize: ₦100,000 (₦50,000 Competition Prize + ₦50,000 Kingsley Ezeuwa Prize)

2nd Prize: ₦50,000

3rd Prize: ₦30,000

Consolation prizes are also available for 4th and 5th place.

There's also a publication opportunity, with top-performing entries earmarked for wider dissemination as part of the symposium.

Abstract Format

Submit in Microsoft Word (.docx)

Times New Roman, font size 12

1.5 line spacing

200 words, outlining your proposed research topic

Deadline for Submission

The competition timeline runs from 3rd to 25th August, 2026 — meaning the abstract submission window closes very soon. If you're an eligible undergraduate History student, don't sit on this one; get your 200-word abstract ready and in as quickly as possible.

How to Apply

Submit your abstract via the official Young Historians portal:

https://www.younghistorian.org/

A note of transparency: this post is based on the official call-for-abstracts flyer circulated by the Young Historians Initiative and IFRA-Nigeria. Some details — such as the full publication terms and the symposium date itself — were only partially visible on the flyer. Prospective applicants should confirm final details directly on the application portal or the organisers' official Instagram page before submitting.

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NPRGS training 2026, OSSAP-TVEE application, National Poverty Reduction with Growth Strategy, free technical vocational training Nigeria, NPRGS fashion design track, NPRGS AI track

 NPRGS Technical & Vocational Upskilling Training 2026: Everything You Need to Know Before You Apply

Applications are officially open for the National Poverty Reduction with Growth Strategy (NPRGS) Technical & Vocational Upskilling Training Programme, a Federal Government-backed skills initiative offering free, practical training in Artificial Intelligence/Graphics, Fashion Design, and Makeup Artistry.

If you've been searching for a genuine, government-powered skill acquisition programme to build a career or business around, this is one to pay close attention to. Here's a full breakdown of what the programme is about, who qualifies, the tracks available, and how to apply.

What Is the NPRGS Technical & Vocational Upskilling Training?

The National Poverty Reduction with Growth Strategy (NPRGS) is a flagship initiative of the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, implemented by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Technical, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Education (OSSAP-TVEE). Its goal is straightforward: reduce poverty and drive inclusive economic growth by equipping everyday Nigerians with hands-on, income-generating skills.

The Technical & Vocational Upskilling component is the training arm of this strategy. Rather than theory-heavy classroom learning, it focuses on practical, market-ready skills that participants can immediately convert into employment, self-employment, or a small business. Through the programme, beneficiaries receive practical skills training intended to improve their capacity for employment, self-employment and entrepreneurship.

Applications have already opened in phases across different states — most recently, the Oyo State phase of the programme, with physical training taking place in Ibadan — and the Fashion Design track has also opened its own dedicated call for applications, powered by OSSAP-TVEE in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning.

Skills Tracks Available

Based on the flyer and official information circulating from the programme, applicants can choose one track to train in:

•Artificial Intelligence (AI) / Graphics Track — practical exposure to AI tools and graphics-related digital skills.

•Fashion Design Track — practical fashion design and garment-making skills that can help participants improve their employability, start or strengthen a fashion business, and create sustainable sources of income. Training areas include fashion design, garment construction, clothing production, and fashion entrepreneurship.

•Makeup Artistry Track — practical, hands-on training in professional makeup application and artistry as a viable trade and business skill.

Only one track can typically be selected per application, so think carefully about which skill aligns with your interest, background, or existing business before you apply.

Who Should Apply?

This programme is refreshingly inclusive. Based on details from the application process, it is open to Nigerians across a wide range of backgrounds, including those with:

-No formal education

-Primary or secondary education (WAEC/NECO)

-Vocational or technical qualifications

-Diploma, NCE, or HND

-Bachelor's or postgraduate degrees

Applicants may be students, self-employed individuals, unemployed persons, government workers, or private-sector employees. The application is open to Nigerians who are interested in acquiring or improving practical technical and vocational skills.

General requirements applicants should be prepared to meet:

-Be a Nigerian citizen

-Be genuinely interested in one of the available training tracks (AI/Graphics, Fashion Design, or Makeup Artistry)

-Be available to attend the full training period physically (where the training is held in-person)

-Provide accurate personal and contact information on the application form

-Be committed to completing the training and applying the skill afterward

Note on state eligibility: NPRGS training is being rolled out in phases across different states. For example, one active phase is specifically for applicants able to train physically in Ibadan, Oyo State, for two consecutive weeks (Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm). If your state or location isn't currently listed on the application form you access, it likely means that phase hasn't opened for your state yet — keep checking, as NPRGS has been expanding state by state.

What You Stand to Gain

Selected participants can expect to:

-Receive free, practical technical and vocational training in their chosen track

-Improve employability and job readiness

-Gain skills that support self-employment, freelancing, or entrepreneurship

-Access a Federal Government-backed empowerment programme with potential startup support (previous NPRGS phases have included starter tools such as portable sewing machines for fashion design participants)

Application Deadline

As of the time of writing, no fixed closing date has been officially published on the application forms or flyers for this programme. However, government skills programmes of this nature typically close on rolling or short notice once slots are filled, so early application is strongly advised. 

How to Apply

Confirm you meet the eligibility requirements above.

Decide which track you want to train in: AI/Graphics, Fashion Design, or Makeup Artistry.

Complete the official Google Form application with accurate personal details.

Where required, follow the OSSAP-TVEE office page on Instagram as part of the application confirmation.

Submit and await selection communication.

👉 Apply here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1QiskHiBWfDU89daDzZuthqf18a7ttYTj3GjwshQf0Cs/viewform

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the NPRGS Technical & Vocational Upskilling Training free?

Yes. It is a Federal Government-funded initiative under the National Poverty Reduction with Growth Strategy, offered at no cost to selected participants.

Who runs the NPRGS training programme?

It is implemented by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Technical, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Education (OSSAP-TVEE), under the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning.

Can applicants from any state apply?

Applications are being rolled out in phases by state. Check the current form to confirm whether your state or location is included in the active phase.

What skills tracks are available?

Artificial Intelligence/Graphics, Fashion Design, and Makeup Artistry, based on current phases of the programme.

Is there a fee to apply?

No. Be cautious of anyone requesting payment to "guarantee" a slot — the official application process does not require payment.

This post will be updated as new information, deadlines, and state phases are officially announced. For more grants, fellowships, and opportunity updates for Nigerian and African entrepreneurs, follow Ganarious Blog.

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 WomenLift Health Leadership Journey 2027: Fully-Funded Programme for Women Leaders in Health — Apply Before September 18

Are you a mid- to senior-career woman working in health or a health-connected field in Nigeria, East Africa, Southern Africa, or India? WomenLift Health has just opened applications for its 2027 Leadership Journey, and this is one fully-funded opportunity you don't want to scroll past.

What Is the WomenLift Health Leadership Journey?

The WomenLift Health Leadership Journey is a fully funded, 12-month leadership development programme designed to strengthen the leadership capacity of talented women working in health and interconnected sectors. It is delivered through a mix of virtual learning, one-on-one executive coaching, group mentoring, peer networking, and two mandatory in-person residencies (the Immersion and the Lift-Off).

The programme is built around what WomenLift Health calls "Health++" — the understanding that real, sustainable improvements in health don't happen in a silo. They depend on coordinated action across fields like climate change, food systems, agriculture, water and sanitation, education, economic policy, gender equity, and technology. So if your work touches health from any of these angles, this Journey is designed with you in mind.

As part of the programme, each fellow develops a Health Leadership Project — a self-directed initiative that applies what they're learning to a real, practical health challenge. Graduates go on to join the Global Fellows Network, a lifelong community of women leaders and allies working at local, regional, and global levels to advance women's leadership in health.

For 2027, WomenLift Health is focusing its Leadership Journeys on Africa and Asia, with cohorts running in:

-Nigeria

-Eastern Africa

-Southern Africa

-India

(2027 applications will not be open in North America this cycle — though this does not affect existing North America Global Fellows.)

Who Is It For?

The Leadership Journey is open to mid- to senior-career women who:

•Identify as women

•Work in health or a health-connected sector (as broadly defined above)

•Have significant professional experience — programmes like the India Journey specify roughly 15–25 years of work experience, and similar seniority is expected across regions

•Can commit fully to the 12-month programme, including all mandatory virtual sessions and both in-person residencies

•Are citizens residing and working in one of the eligible countries for their region

Eligibility by region/state or country:

-Nigeria — Nigerian citizens residing and working in Nigeria.

-Eastern Africa — Women working in health++ roles across Eastern Africa; the 2027 cohort will include 35 fellows from the region.

-Southern Africa — Citizens residing and working in Angola, Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Eswatini, Zambia, or Zimbabwe.

-India — Indian citizens residing and working in India, based in the IST time zone for at least 75% of the programme.

WomenLift Health particularly encourages applications from women from minority, historically marginalised, and underrepresented communities within these countries. Note: each cohort is small and highly competitive — historically only around 30–35 women are selected per region, out of hundreds of applicants — so a strong, specific application matters.

What Does the Programme Cover?

-Leadership assessments and personalised coaching

-Group mentoring from experienced health leaders

-Regular virtual learning touchpoints throughout the year

-Two mandatory in-person residencies (Immersion and Lift-Off), with all travel and accommodation costs covered by WomenLift Health

-Support to design and execute a practical Health Leadership Project

-Lifetime membership in the WomenLift Health Global Fellows Network

-The programme is completely free to participants — there is no cost to apply or to attend.

Deadline for Submission

Applications close on September 18, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. (Central Africa Time / West Africa Time).

Note that regional pages have listed slightly varying dates (September 17 vs. 18), so intending applicants should confirm the exact regional deadline and time zone on the official application page before submitting, and are strongly advised not to wait until the last day.

How to Apply

Applications are submitted through the official WomenLift Health website. Use the short link below, or search for your specific regional Leadership Journey page (Nigeria, Eastern Africa, Southern Africa, or India) on womenlifthealth.org:

Apply here: http://bit.ly/2027LJ

Before applying, review your regional programme calendar carefully — attendance at all virtual sessions and in-person residencies is mandatory, and WomenLift Health advises against applying if you cannot commit to the full 12 months.

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 Call for Applications: Digital Entrepreneurship Training and Business Support Programme for Women and Girls in Northern Nigeria

Eligibility at a glance: Open ONLY to women and girls resident in Kano or Bauchi State, ages 18–35. If you don't live in these two states, you unfortunately do not qualify for this cohort — but keep reading, more opportunities like this come up regularly on the blog.

What Is This Programme About?

The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD), through its Agenda-WINNIG initiative, has opened applications for a Digital Entrepreneurship Training and Business Support Programme designed specifically for women and girls in Northern Nigeria.

The programme's mission is simple but powerful: "Addressing the Gender Digital Divide and Enhancing Business Opportunities for Women and Girls in Northern Nigeria."

Participants will be equipped with:

•Practical entrepreneurship skills

•Financial literacy

•Digital marketing

•Business planning

•Innovation and mentorship

•Business development support

The goal is to help women establish, strengthen, and grow sustainable businesses using digital tools — closing the gap between what women in Lagos and other tech hubs have access to, and what's available to women in the North.

This is part of CITAD's larger push to train thousands of women across Northern Nigeria in digital literacy and entrepreneurship, so if you've heard about their bigger digital literacy campaign, this training programme is one of the practical entry points into it.

Who Can Apply?

You are eligible if you:

-Are a woman or girl living in Kano or Bauchi State

-Are between the ages of 18 and 35

-Are digitally literate (basic comfort with a smartphone/computer)

-Have access to a smartphone or computer

-Have an existing business or a viable business idea

-Can commit to completing the full training

-Are committed to growing a business

Note: This is state-specific. Applicants outside Kano and Bauchi are not eligible for this particular cohort.

Training Details

Venue: Kano or Bauchi

Training dates: Not yet announced — successful applicants will be contacted directly with dates

Selection Process

CITAD will shortlist candidates based on:

-Meeting the eligibility requirements

-Demonstrated commitment to participate fully

-Business potential

Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted, so make sure your application form is filled honestly and completely.

Deadline for Submission

No official deadline has been published by CITAD as of this writing. The application is currently open via a live form on CITAD's website, with no stated closing date. Given that these kinds of programmes often close applications once slots fill or a cohort size is reached, the safest move is to apply as early as possible rather than wait. We'll update this post if CITAD announces a firm deadline.

How to Apply

Applications are submitted directly through CITAD's website via an online form. You'll be asked for basic information (name, age, phone, email), your state and LGA, details about your existing business or idea, your education level, your digital skills level, and why you want to join the training.

Apply using the link below 👇🏼 

https://citad.org.ng/agenda-winnig-digital-entrepreneurship-training/

Found this useful? Share it with a woman in Kano or Bauchi who's ready to grow her business with digital skills. For more grants, fellowships, and training opportunities for Arewa women, keep following Ganarious Blog.

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Applications are open for Ideation Hub Africa's African Masterclass Series 6.0 (AMS 6.0) — a FREE 12-week Impact Accelerator for changemakers, NGOs, and entrepreneurs across Africa. Deadline: Rolling basis. Apply now.

 Ideation Hub Africa (IHA) African Masterclass Series 6.0 — Apply Now (Free, 12 Weeks)

Deadline: Rolling Basis (applications open, apply as soon as possible)

Applications are officially open for the Ideation Hub Africa (IHA) African Masterclass Series 6.0 (AMS 6.0) — a FREE, 12-week Impact Accelerator designed to equip 2,500 changemakers, social innovators, entrepreneurs, and NGO leaders across Africa with practical, future-ready skills in funding, technology, AI, innovation, and leadership.

If you have been searching for a free business masterclass in Africa, a fellowship for social entrepreneurs, or a training program for NGOs and changemakers, this is one opportunity you don't want to sleep on.

What Is the African Masterclass Series 6.0 About?

AMS 6.0 is themed "The Impact Accelerator: Funding, Technology, Innovation, AI & Leadership for the Digital Age." It is the sixth and most ambitious edition of Ideation Hub Africa's flagship Masterclass Series, built to close the gap between bold ideas and real, scalable impact.

Across the continent, many brilliant ideas never grow because founders lack the right structure, mentorship, or access to capital and tools. AMS 6.0 exists to fix that gap by giving participants a full 12-week, hands-on learning journey rather than a one-off webinar.

Key Features of AMS 6.0

•World-Class Curriculum — 12 innovation-rich, module-based sessions built around Africa's real challenges

•Expert Mentorship — direct access to 12 top mentors from entrepreneurship, development, and policy sectors

•Impact Cohorts — participants are grouped into peer-led teams aligned to specific SDGs (health, education, agriculture, climate, gender equity, STEM, AI, policy, civic engagement, and economic empowerment) for collaboration and project development

•Capstone Challenge — a final pitch session where participants present their solutions to a panel of funders, experts, and ecosystem leaders

•Post-Program Support — alumni engagement, visibility, and funding access for standout projects

•Certificate of Completion at the end of the program

•The program is entirely free and runs for 12 weeks, combining live sessions, expert-led masterclasses, case studies, workshops, mentorship, and collaborative project work.

Who Should Apply? (Eligibility)

-AMS 6.0 is open to changemakers across the African continent. You should apply if you are:

-A social entrepreneur or NGO leader building or scaling a community project

-Passionate about AI, innovation, and the future of work

-A woman leader or part of an underrepresented group (this is a priority segment)

-A university student or early-career professional

-A nonprofit professional seeking clarity, capacity, and capital for your work

-A policy advocate or development practitioner solving pressing African challenges

-A changemaker with a bold idea and the commitment to grow it

-A developer, designer, or digital creator who wants to use technology and AI for real-world impact, build scalable tech-enabled products, or sharpen your product thinking

-Country eligibility: This program is open to applicants across the African continent — it is not restricted to a single country or region. Both new applicants and AMS alumni can apply, as every edition features a fresh curriculum.

Application Deadline

The deadline is on a rolling basis, meaning applications are reviewed and accepted continuously until slots are filled. Because this is a free, high-demand program with a limited target of 2,500 participants, it is best to apply early rather than wait.

How to Apply

Ready to apply? Follow these steps:

Visit the official application page: https://africanmasterclass.org/ams6/apply-now-for-african-masterclass-series-6/

Fill in the online application form with your details and area of interest

Submit before slots close, since applications are rolling

For more information about the program, visit the official AMS 6.0 website: africanmasterclass.org

You can also reach the organizers directly:

Email: masterclass@ideationhubarica.org or info@ideationhubafrica.org

About Ideation Hub Africa

Ideation Hub Africa (IHA) is one of Africa's leading public policy, social enterprise incubation/acceleration, and impact advisory organizations. Through the African Masterclass Series, IHA has trained thousands of social entrepreneurs, nonprofit professionals, and changemakers across the continent since the program's earlier editions, partnering with organizations like the Aspire Coronation Trust (ACT) Foundation to widen access and impact.

Why This Opportunity Matters

For Arewa women entrepreneurs, NGO founders, and young leaders looking to scale their ideas with structure, mentorship, and access to funders — AMS 6.0 offers a rare combination: it's free, it's 12 weeks of real depth (not a one-day webinar), and it ends with a live pitch to funders and ecosystem leaders. If you have an idea sitting on the shelf because you lack the right guidance or network, this masterclass is built exactly for you.

Don't wait — applications are rolling and spots are limited to 2,500 participants. Apply now.

Got a business idea that needs structure, or need help registering your business with CAC while you build? Reach out to Ganarious Consults for mentorship, coaching, and business registration support.

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 NiYA x Cascador Founders Programme 2026: Get Up to ₦5 Million Non-Dilutive Funding for Your Startup

If you are a young Nigerian entrepreneur with a business idea or an early-stage startup and you have been searching for free startup funding in Nigeria 2026, the NiYA x Cascador Founders Programme just opened a real door for you. This new partnership between the Federal Ministry of Youth Development (FMYD), the Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA), and Cascador is offering training, mentorship, and up to ₦5 million in non-dilutive funding to young founders — even those who have never registered a business or kept formal financial records.

This post breaks down everything you need to know: what the programme is about, who qualifies, when applications open, and how to apply.

What Is the NiYA x Cascador Founders Programme?

The NiYA x Cascador Founders Programme is a pilot entrepreneurship and funding initiative announced to mark International Youth Day 2026, under the global theme "Different Contexts, Common Aspirations." It is a partnership between:

-FMYD (Federal Ministry of Youth Development) — through its flagship platform NiYA

-Cascador — a Nigeria-focused platform that supports growth-stage founders and has, since 2019, supported 70 companies that have collectively raised more than $125 million

-The programme will take 20 early-stage Nigerian youth founders — including many who don't yet have formal business registration or a financial track record — through an intensive four-week curriculum covering:

•Business fundamentals

•Investment readiness

•Pitch preparation

Training will combine in-person sessions in Abuja, virtual touchpoints, and 1:1 mentorship from experienced founders and industry professionals.

The Reward: Up to ₦5 Million in Non-Dilutive Funding

At the end of the four weeks, participants will pitch at a NiYA/FMYD-organised Pitch Day, where the 8 top-performing founders will each receive:

Up to ₦5 million in non-dilutive funding from Cascador (meaning you don't give up equity in your business)

An Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) solution to help structure, manage, and scale business operations

Even founders who don't make the final 8 still win big: all 20 graduates retain NiYA alumni status, with priority consideration for future NiYA opportunities.

Who Is This Programme For?

This opportunity is targeted at:

-Early-stage Nigerian youth founders, generally within NiYA's youth bracket of 18–35 years

-Founders still building their businesses — you don't need formal CAC registration or a financial history to apply

-Young Nigerians ready to commit to an intensive, hands-on four-week programme (in-person in Abuja, plus virtual sessions)

-Eligibility note: This programme is open to Nigerian citizens/residents only. If you are outside Nigeria, this particular opportunity does not apply to you, but keep an eye on NiYA's other tracks (Academy, Community, Gigs, and StartUp) which also run periodically.

When Do Applications Open? What Is the Deadline?

Applications open: Wednesday, 19th August 2026

Application deadline: Not yet officially published as of this writing. NiYA typically announces closing dates once the application portal goes live, so bookmark the official page below and check back, or follow NiYA's social channels for the exact cut-off date.

Because slots are limited to just 20 founders for the pilot cohort, it's wise to apply as early as possible once the portal opens rather than waiting until a deadline is announced.

How to Apply

Applications are processed through the official NiYA portal:

👉 Apply here: https://niya.gov.ng

Once on the site, look out for the NiYA x Cascador Founders Programme application link/banner (it will go live from 19th August 2026). You can also stay updated via:

Instagram: @nigerianyouthacademy

X (Twitter): @OfficialNiya_Ng

LinkedIn: NiYA (Nigerian Youth Academy)

Email: support@niya.gov.ng

Why This Matters for Arewa and Nigerian Youth Entrepreneurs

For many young founders in Northern Nigeria and across the country, the biggest barrier to growth isn't ambition — it's access to structured training and non-dilutive capital that doesn't require you to already have a "perfect" business on paper. This programme was specifically designed to meet founders where they are, including those without formal registration, making it a strong fit for informal traders, creatives, agribusiness founders, and fashion/product-based entrepreneurs looking to formalize and scale.

If you've been thinking about registering your business (CAC) or need help getting investment-ready before opportunities like this open, that's exactly the kind of groundwork worth doing now — while you wait for the portal to go live.

This post will be updated once the official application link and deadline go live. Keep checking back on Ganarious Blog for the latest on grants, fellowships, and funding opportunities for Nigerian and Arewa entrepreneurs.

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 Free GIZ Data Governance Certificate Courses for African Policymakers and Professionals 2026 (Apply Now)

 Free online courses Africa 2026, GIZ data governance certificate, Atingi free courses, data governance training for Africans, free certificate courses Nigeria

Data is no longer just a "tech person" wahala. From the app you use to check your bank balance, to the government office issuing your national ID, to the small business tracking customer orders on WhatsApp — data touches everything. And in today's world, whoever manages data well, manages trust, opportunity, and growth well too.

That's exactly why this new opportunity from GIZ, in partnership with the African Union and funded through the European Union's Global Gateway initiative, deserves your attention. It's a set of free, self-paced, certificate-earning online courses on data governance, built specifically with Africa's digital future in mind — and yes, Nigerians are eligible.

If you've been searching for "free online certificate courses 2026," "free data governance training Africa," or "GIZ Atingi free courses," this is the one. Let's break it down the Ganarious way — plain and simple, no grammar wahala.

What Is This All About?

This is a collection of free online courses on data governance hosted on the Atingi digital learning platform, offered through a collaboration between GIZ (the German development agency), the African Union, and the European Union's Global Gateway initiative. The goal is simple: help Africans — from policymakers to everyday professionals — understand how data is managed responsibly, and how good data governance drives trust, innovation, and inclusive growth across the continent.

The courses cover three key areas:

•How Africa's data fits into the global context — how Africa's data economy connects to regional and global systems, and why cross-border data cooperation matters for sustainable development.

•How citizens can have a voice in data governance — how participatory approaches build trust, legitimacy, and accountability in Africa's digital space.

•What happens when data moves across borders — how data creates value as it flows from local systems to cross-border exchanges, and why governance matters at every stage.

Each course is self-paced, meaning you learn at your own speed — no fixed class time, no pressure. And once you complete a course, you earn a certificate.

Why This Matters

You don't need to be a "tech guru" or coder before you understand data governance. In fact, this program is built for non-technical people too — because data governance is about policy, trust, accountability, and how organizations (government or private) use information responsibly. Whether you're running a business, working in government, in NGO/development work, or just building your CV, this is a skill set that is becoming essential in Africa's growing digital economy.

Who Is This For?

These free courses are suitable for:

-Professionals with foundational knowledge of data governance who want regional and global context

-Non-technical practitioners who want to understand the societal, regulatory, and institutional dimensions of data

-Policymakers, government officials, and public sector professionals

Learners interested in building a career in African data governance and digital policy

-Anyone curious about how data shapes public services, business, and daily life across Africa

Eligibility

Open globally, including to applicants across Africa

Nigeria is eligible — anyone in Nigeria (and across the continent) can enrol

No advanced technical background required; the courses are designed to be accessible to non-technical learners

Free of charge for all participants, courtesy of the EU's Global Gateway funding

Deadline for Submission

There is no fixed application deadline for these particular courses. They are self-paced and available on an ongoing basis through the Atingi platform, so you can enrol and start learning at any time. However, opportunities like this can sometimes be updated or archived, so it's wise to enrol as soon as possible to secure your spot and start earning your certificate without delay.

Why Enrol?

✅ The courses are completely free

✅ You learn at your own pace, on your own schedule

✅ You earn a certificate for every course you complete

✅ Backed by credible institutions — GIZ, African Union, and the EU Global Gateway initiative

Application Links (Enrol Directly)

How Africa's data fits into the global context — Click here to enroll

How citizens can have a voice in data governance — Click here to enroll

What happens when data moves across borders — Click here to enroll

You can take one, two, or all three courses — there's no restriction. Each one comes with its own certificate on completion

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 Y-ACT Regional Youth Steering Committee (YSC) 2026–2028 — Apply Now

Dear Youth Leaders,

If you've been looking for a platform that puts your voice directly into youth policy and advocacy across Africa, this one is worth your attention. Y-ACT (Youth in Action), an initiative of Amref Health Africa, has opened applications for its Regional Youth Steering Committee (YSC) 3.0, covering the 2026–2028 term.

What Is the Y-ACT Youth Steering Committee?

The YSC is a strategic advisory body that guides how Y-ACT engages, partners, and advocates with and for young people across Sub-Saharan Africa and the diaspora. It's not a training programme or a fellowship — it's a governance and advisory role. Members sit at the table where Y-ACT's programmes, partnerships, and advocacy priorities are shaped, and they help ensure the organisation stays accountable to genuine youth engagement rather than just paying lip service to it.

As a member, you'll be expected to:

-Provide strategic input into Y-ACT's priorities, programmes, and partnerships

-Advise on youth-focused initiatives and opportunities to expand impact

-Contribute to regional and global engagements, consultations, and advocacy platforms

-Support knowledge development through thought pieces, reports, and policy inputs

-Represent youth perspectives and promote accountability in Y-ACT's youth engagement approach

Who Can Apply?

Eligibility criteria:

-Aged 18–35 years at the time of application

-Have proven experience in youth engagement, advocacy, policy, or development initiatives

-Demonstrate a strong understanding of youth-related issues at the national, regional, or continental level

-Able to commit to active participation, collaboration, and defined deliverables

-Country/region eligibility: Open to youth across Sub-Saharan Africa and the Diaspora. Six members will be selected in total, representing Africa's five subregions — North, West, Central, East, and Southern Africa — plus the diaspora. So this is genuinely continent-wide, and Nigerian applicants (representing West Africa) are fully eligible. Strong emphasis is placed on gender balance, diversity, and inclusion.

Tenure and Selection

Members serve a two-year term, which includes a six-month probationary period.

Selection is competitive: open applications, followed by shortlisting and interviews based on experience, strategic thinking, and alignment with Y-ACT's values. Final selection considers regional representation, diversity, and collective expertise.

What's In It for You?

-Influence continental youth policy and programming

-Participate in high-level regional and global engagements

-Access to networks, learning opportunities, and visibility platforms

-Recognition through certificates, recommendations, and public acknowledgment

A modest honorarium and participation support, where applicable

Deadline

31 August 2026, by 5 PM EAT

How to Apply

Apply via the official Google Form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScHhTsGiCEH6duIHpHpPjJWTv9OhV6rw1_jtaCdJwkxJ2C9NQ/viewform

You can also scan the QR code on the official flyer or visit www.yactmovement.org to find out more.

If you're a young leader already active in advocacy, policy, or community engagement circles, this is a genuine seat at a continental table — not just another certificate programme. Don't sleep on it

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 Legislative Mentorship Initiative (LMI) Cohort 5: Call for Applications Now Open

If you are a young Nigerian with a passion for governance, policy, and public service, here is an opportunity worth your attention. The Legislative Mentorship Initiative (LMI) has opened applications for its 5th Cohort, and applicants have just about three weeks to apply.

What Is LMI?

The Legislative Mentorship Initiative is a leadership development and mentorship fellowship founded by Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, CFR — former Speaker of Nigeria's 9th House of Representatives and current Chief of Staff to the President. LMI was established to develop the next generation of legislators and ethical public sector leaders equipped with the leadership skills, knowledge, and expertise to enhance public service delivery and foster national unity.

The programme runs in partnership with the Office of the Speaker, House of Representatives, the Conference of Speakers and Presidents of African Legislatures (COSPAL), and the National Assembly Library Trust Fund (NALTF), with the Leadership Advancement Foundation and National Assembly also listed as partners.

Since its inception, LMI has trained over 200 fellows from 36+ states across Nigeria, and more than 60 alumni now serve in public office — including elected legislators.

What Does the Fellowship Involve?

-LMI is a fully residential fellowship built around:

-Legislative process and parliamentary history training

-Value-based leadership development

-Mentorship from seasoned legislators and public sector leaders

-Internship and career opportunities within public institutions

-Based on past cohorts, the programme typically spans about 10 weeks total — roughly 3 weeks of residential training, followed by an internship placement and virtual training/community engagement. Fellows who complete the programme are conferred the title "Fellow of the Legislative Mentorship Initiative (FLMI)."

Who Is It For?

-The Fellowship is open to Nigerians aged 21–35, and based on prior cohorts, successful applicants typically:

-Are Nigerian citizens

-Hold at least a Degree or HND from a recognized institution

-Show strong leadership potential and a track record of community or societal impact

-Are fluent in English, with clear communication and writing skills

-Demonstrate integrity, patriotism, and commitment to national development

-According to Hon. Henry Nwawuba, Chairman of the LMI Selection Committee, academic qualifications alone won't determine who gets in — the committee is also looking for character, critical thinking, curiosity, and a genuine willingness to learn and serve.

-Country/State Eligibility: Open to Nigerian citizens only, nationwide (all 36 states and the FCT are eligible to apply).

How to Apply

Visit the application portal: https://app.lmi.ng/

Complete the online application form

Submit a Personal Statement and an updated CV

Upload a 1-minute video introducing yourself and explaining why you should be selected

Key Dates

Application Opens

13th August, 2026

Application Closes

3rd September, 2026

Apply Here

https://app.lmi.ng/

Why This Matters

For Arewa youth and young Nigerians more broadly who are serious about a future in policy, governance, or elected office, LMI offers a rare, credible pathway — direct mentorship from sitting legislators, hands-on exposure to how laws are actually made, and a growing alumni network already producing elected leaders. With applications closing in just three weeks, interested applicants should start preparing their CV, personal statement, and video pitch now rather than waiting till the deadline.

Follow LMI for updates: Instagram @lmi_official | Facebook: Legislative Mentorship Initiative | LinkedIn: Legislative Mentorship Initiative

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GEM HUNT 5.0: FROM ROOTS TO RICHES - NEW SHOT AT FUNDING AND VISIBILITY FOR YOUNG NIGERIAN ENTREPRENEURS

 Gem Hunt 5.0: "From Roots to Riches" — A New Shot at Funding and Visibility for Young Nigerian Entrepreneurs

If you're a young hustler building something real — whether it's a tailoring business, a farm, a tech idea, or a market stall — there's a new opportunity worth your attention. Bilaad Development Trust (BDT), in partnership with Gem Hunt, has launched the 5th edition of its flagship entrepreneurship competition, themed "From Roots to Riches: Building Nigeria's Next Generation of Entrepreneurs."

What Is Gem Hunt 5.0 About?

Gem Hunt is Bilaad Development Trust's signature entrepreneurship initiative, now in its 5th edition. Past editions have spotlighted young female entrepreneurs, tech innovators, and community-driven businesses across Nigeria, awarding cash prizes, mentorship, and strategic linkages to winners.

This edition is different in scope — it's open to a wider range of MSMEs (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) across six key sectors:

• Tech
• Creatives
• Fashion
• Agriculture
• Renewable Energy
• Retail and Trade

According to the official programme description, Gem Hunt 5.0 is built on real competition, market validation, and investor-readiness coaching, with top finalists getting the chance to pitch live to a panel of investors and industry leaders. It's positioned as a platform for genuine "builders" — people already doing the work, not just people with an idea on paper.

Who Is It For?

Gem Hunt 5.0 is open to young Nigerians who meet all of the following criteria:

-Age: 15 – 35 years at the time of application

-Nationality/Residency: Must be a Nigerian citizen, resident in Nigeria (open to applicants across all 36 states and the FCT)

-Business stage: You must already have an existing business or startup — from early-stage to growth-stage. Pure concept entries with no evidence of activity will not be considered

-Sector: All MSME segments are welcome, as long as your venture demonstrates at least one of the following:

Inclusion of informal workers into the formal economy

• Job creation
• Productivity
• Local content development
• Financial inclusion

In short: if you're already running something — from your bedroom, a market stall, a cooperative, or a registered startup — and it addresses a real gap in Nigeria's informal economy, you qualify to apply.

What You Need to Submit

Every applicant must:

-Complete the online application via the official Gem Hunt 5.0 portal before the closing date

-Submit a Preliminary Challenge video titled "My Hustle Story" — a 2-minute video covering:

-Who you are and what your venture does

-The problem you solve and who you serve

-Proof of work (show your product or service in action — evidence, not just ideas)

-Ensure all content is original, honest, and accurately represents your venture

-Record the video in a well-lit setting with clear audio and good resolution

Note: Applications with fabricated, plagiarized, or misleading information will be automatically disqualified. Shortlisted applicants move on to a Primary Challenge stage and will be contacted by email or phone.

As of publishing, Bilaad Development Trust's official Gem Hunt 5.0 page asks applicants to submit "before the closing date" but does not publish a specific closing date on the site. To avoid missing out, follow BDT's official channels closely for the exact deadline announcement:

Instagram: @bilaaddevelopment

Facebook: Bilaad Development Trust

X (Twitter): @BilaadDevTrust

LinkedIn: Bilaad Development Trust

How to Apply

You can register for Gem Hunt 5.0 directly here:

👉 Apply for Gem Hunt 5.0 https://bilaaddevelopmenttrust.com/gem-hunt-5-0/

Or visit the general BDT website: www.bilaaddevelopmenttrust.com

Why This Matters

Bilaad Development Trust was founded by the team behind Bilaad Realty as a Corporate Social Responsibility initiative focused on three pillars: Education, Entrepreneurship, and Change Advocacy. Gem Hunt has become their most visible entrepreneurship vehicle, with past editions delivering cash prizes, business grants, mentorship, and market linkages to winners across categories like fashion, agriculture, tech, and services.

For Arewa and Northern Nigerian entrepreneurs especially — many of whom run informal or semi-formal businesses in fashion, agriculture, and trade — Gem Hunt 5.0 is a rare opportunity to get visibility, investor exposure, and structured coaching without needing to already be "polished" or fully formalized.

If you've been building quietly, this might be your moment to be seen.

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 GET Compass SME Business Grant 2026: Up to ₦2 Million for Early-Stage Nigerian Entrepreneurs

If you're running a small business in Nigeria and looking for equity-free funding to expand, this one is worth your attention. The Grooming Endowment Trust (GET) has opened applications for Cohort 5 of its flagship GET Compass SME Business Grant, offering up to ₦2,000,000 in non-repayable capital to early-stage entrepreneurs.

What Is the GET Compass Grant?

GET Compass is the flagship enterprise development programme of the Grooming Endowment Trust — a non-profit set up in 2020, seeded by the Grooming Centre, to support sustainable social initiatives in education, health, and enterprise across Nigeria. Rather than simply handing out cash, the programme takes selected entrepreneurs through a structured business development process before funding is disbursed.

The grant is designed to help small and medium-scale businesses:

-Expand operations

-Purchase equipment

-Capitalize business processes

-Beyond the money, participants get:

-Mentorship — one-on-one guidance from industry leaders

-A 2-week intensive business clinic and workshop in Lagos

-Networking with other entrepreneurs, innovators, and investors

-Post-grant mentorship sessions to support long-term growth

Who Is It For?

Eligibility (Nigeria only):

-Applicant must be at least 18 years old

-Business must be registered and actively operating in Nigeria (Local Government or CAC registration counts)

-Business must be no more than 3 years old

-You must be fully available to attend the mandatory 2-week business clinic in Lagos

-You'll need to show documented evidence that your business is an active going concern

-You must be able to clearly explain a specific structural growth problem your business faces and how the grant funds would solve it

-You must commit to post-grant mentorship

This is squarely aimed at Nigerian founders — if your business is registered and operating outside Nigeria, this particular cohort is not for you.

Application Link and Deadline

Apply here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSevfhRYthH2risCqoQt6vEmOTWGbDnbsgvS9tRFSw58VWidrQ/viewform

Registration opened: July 23, 2026

Deadline: August 20, 2026

You can also visit the official GET Grant Programs portal at getgrantprogram.groomingendowment.org for more details and updates on future cohorts.

Should You Apply?

If you've been running your business for under three years, have CAC or LG registration in place, and can articulate a clear growth bottleneck that ₦2 million would fix, this is a solid opportunity — not just for the funding, but for the structured mentorship and Lagos workshop that comes with it. Just be honest with yourself about the time commitment: the 2-week clinic is mandatory, not optional.

Deadline is August 20, 2026 — don't sit on this one.

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PAL FELLOWSHIP 3.0: CYPA AFRICA OPENS APPLICATION FOR YOUNG POLICY LEADERS IN NORTHERN NIGERIA

 PAL Fellowship 3.0: CYPA Africa Opens Applications for Young Policy Leaders in Northern Nigeria

If you're a young person from Northern Nigeria with a passion for policy, advocacy, or public leadership, CYPA Africa just opened a door you don't want to miss — the Policy, Leadership and Advocacy (PAL) Fellowship 3.0.

What Is the PAL Fellowship?

The PAL Fellowship is the flagship policy leadership programme of CYPA Africa (Centre for Youth Participation, Dialogue and Advocacy Africa), delivered in partnership with Equity International Initiative (EII). CYPA Africa was established in 2014 as a student-led initiative at the University of Jos and has since grown into one of Nigeria's leading youth-focused civil society organisations, working across governance, elections, human rights, peacebuilding, and youth engagement.

PAL Fellowship 3.0 is designed to raise a new generation of policy thinkers, researchers, advocates, and public leaders. Fellows go through a structured, virtual-first curriculum, then cap it off with a hands-on residential bootcamp — this cohort's bootcamp holds in Jos, and includes visits to institutions like the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), based on activities from previous cohorts.

Programme Details

-Duration: September to December 2026

Format: Virtual sessions, assignments, an individual policy brief, plus a three-day residential bootcamp in Jos

-Cohort size: Only 24 Fellows will be selected

Cost to fellows: Accommodation and feeding during the residency are fully covered by the Fellowship. Fellows only need to arrange their own transportation to and from Jos.

Who Is It For?

Eligibility:

Young people aged 18–35 years

Resident in one of the 19 Northern States or the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nigeria

⚠️ Note: This fellowship is geographically restricted to Northern Nigeria and the FCT — it is not open nationwide or internationally.

Selection is strictly merit-based, but CYPA Africa states it will also prioritise diversity, gender balance, and the inclusion of underrepresented groups.

Successful applicants must be ready to commit fully — that means attending all virtual sessions, completing assignments, producing an individual policy brief, and showing up for the full three-day bootcamp in Jos.

How to Apply

Application link: https://bit.ly/4zak8UV

Phone: +234 810 452 4464

Email: Cypa01africa@gmail.com

Website: www.cypaafrica.org

Should You Apply?

If you're a young Northern Nigerian who wants real exposure to policy work — not just theory, but mentorship, a bootcamp, and a tangible policy brief to your name — PAL Fellowship 3.0 is worth your shot. With only 24 spots, get your application in early and make sure every part of it reflects your genuine passion for policy and advocacy.

Got questions on eligibility or the application process? reach CYPA Africa directly via the contacts above.

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 Get Up to ₦20 Million: FCMB-FMO AgriTech Hackathon & Venture Building Programme 2026 is Now Open

If you're building an agritech solution anywhere in Nigeria — from a farm-to-market logistics app to a processing innovation — this opportunity deserves a spot on your radar.

First City Monument Bank (FCMB), in partnership with the Dutch Entrepreneurial Development Bank (FMO), Heave Ventures, and co-funded by the European Union, has launched the FCMB-FMO AgriTech Hackathon and Venture Building Programme 2026. The programme is designed to identify, support, and finance Nigeria's most promising agritech startups and SMEs, helping them become investment-ready, scale their operations, and connect with real funders.

What Is It For?

The programme gives forward-thinking agritech startups the chance to sharpen their business models, scale faster, and build solutions that reshape agriculture across the continent. It welcomes founders building innovative solutions anywhere along the agricultural value chain — from production, processing, and logistics to financing, market access, and agricultural technology.

Beyond the grant money, this is a structured venture-building experience. Past editions of the programme ran as a 6-week bootcamp combining business advisory, expert mentorship, and direct pitch access to investors and banks, alongside a personalized "Zimara Fundability Scorecard" that shows founders exactly how investors and banks view their business.

What shortlisted founders get:

-Funding of up to ₦20 million

-Support for venture building

-Mentorship from seasoned industry experts

-Connections to investors, ecosystem partners, and industry leaders

-Business development assistance to fuel startup growth

Deadline for Submission

August 23, 2026

Eligibility

Country/State eligibility: This programme is open to agritech startups and SMEs based in Nigeria — all states qualify. There's no indication of a state-by-state restriction; founders anywhere in Nigeria are welcome to apply.

You should be building a solution somewhere along the agricultural value chain — production, processing, logistics, financing, market access, or agri-tech tools.

Priority tends to go to ventures with a working idea or business that's already showing traction (this has been the pattern from prior editions of the programme).

How to Apply

Applications are submitted through Zimara, the platform powering the programme's fundability assessment:

👉 https://cohortone.zimara.org/

You can also find more information at https://agri-tech.cc

Why This One Is Worth Your Time

This isn't just a cash prize — it's backed by a Nigerian bank (FCMB), a global development finance institution (FMO), a venture-building partner (Heave Ventures), and the European Union. That combination means the programme is built to actually connect founders to long-term capital and market access, not just hand out a one-time grant.

If you're an agritech founder in Nigeria with a working product or early traction, this is a strong programme to add to your funding pipeline this quarter.

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