THE FOUNDERS SUPPORT INITIATIVE (FSI) GRANT 2026 — UP TO ₦7.5 MILLION NON-DILUTIVE FUNDING FOR AFRICAN FOUNDERS

Do you have a business or startup idea that is ready to grow but you don't want to give away shares just to get funding? The Founders Support Initiative (FSI) has opened applications for its 2026 grant cohort, and it's giving out real money — no equity taken, no shares collected.

What is FSI Grant all about?

FSI is a Pan-African program built to close the gap many young entrepreneurs face: no capital, no mentorship, no network. This is their first cohort (2026), and they say they are aligning with global best practices similar to World Bank, UNDP, and African Development Bank programs.

Selected founders get:

-Non-dilutive funding (money that doesn't cost you equity)

-8–12 week structured training program covering product, growth, and operations

-Mentorship from experienced founders and operators

-Investor exposure through demo opportunities

Grant categories and amounts

-General Startup Grant — ₦750,000 to ₦7,500,000 (any industry, must have MVP or clear traction)

-Youth Grant — ₦750,000 to ₦3,000,000 (ages 18–35, early-stage idea to business)

-Women in Business Grant — ₦1,500,000 to ₦4,500,000 (female-led startups, any sector)

-Innovation & Tech Grant — ₦3,000,000 to ₦7,500,000 (Health, EdTech, Agritech, Fintech, Climate)

You can only apply to one category.

Who is this for? (Eligibility)

-Country/location eligibility: Open to founders based anywhere in Africa, including all Nigerian states, plus African diaspora founders building for the African market

-Age: 18–45 years (Youth Grant specifically is 18–35)

-Must have an early-stage or growing business, ideally with an MVP (minimum viable product) or active market traction

All sectors are welcome

FSI says they especially encourage female founders and teams building outside Lagos and Nairobi — so founders in places like Kano, Kaduna, Zaria, and other Northern cities have a real shot

How the money is paid

Funds are released in tranches, not all at once:

50% upfront when you're accepted

30% after 6 weeks of progress (Milestone 1)

20% after demo day completion (Milestone 2)

Funds can be used for product development, hosting/cloud costs, your first 1–2 hires, marketing, legal/registration, and equipment. It cannot be used for personal expenses or crypto trading.

Deadline for submission

Applications close 31st July 2026. Only 50 spots available, and decision is given within 21 days after applying.

A caution to note

FSI's FAQ mentions a ₦1,000 non-refundable "processing fee" to apply, which they say is to prevent spam applications. Legitimate grants typically don't charge fees, so do your own research and confirm details directly on their official channels before paying anything.

Application link

Apply here: https://founderssupport.org/grants

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AFRICAN WOMEN IMPACT COUNCIL INSTITUTE

 

AWIC Is Looking to Fund Women Building Solutions in AI, Health, Tech, Agriculture, Education, and Community Development

Are you a woman building something that deserves to be funded? The African Women Impact Council (AWIC) wants to hear from you.

AWIC is a private, cross-sector leadership platform based in Abuja, convening Africa's leading women across enterprise, governance, and institutional leadership. Through this call, AWIC is building an ecosystem that identifies, develops, and connects high-potential women entrepreneurs, innovators, and leaders across the continent.

Who this is for

This opportunity is for women developing innovative solutions in any of these areas:

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Health

Technology

Agriculture

Education

Community Development

If your work falls into any of these categories, AWIC wants to invest in what you're building.

What selected projects will get

Funding pathways

Strategic collaborations

Institutional partnerships

Visibility to scale

How to apply

Interested applicants are to submit a project brief. AWIC has not published a public application portal or link on their official website (awic.ng) as at the time of this post, so the safest route is to reach out directly through their verified contact channels below to request the submission process and deadline:

Phone/WhatsApp: 0903 971 1216

Email: secretariat@awic.ng

Website: www.awic.ng

A note on deadline

No specific deadline was stated on the flyer or on AWIC's website. Because AWIC describes its programmes as selective and "intentionally limited to preserve depth," it's best to reach out early and confirm the closing date directly with the secretariat before you prepare your brief.

About AWIC

AWIC (African Women Impact Council) positions itself as an institution-building platform for African women — not just a one-off grant scheme. Their broader work includes leadership positioning, council membership, and strategic convenings for women across governance, enterprise, and capital. AWIC is headquartered in Asokoro, Abuja.

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 SHE WINS AFRICA: IFC OPENS DOOR FOR 1,000 WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS ACROSS AFRICA

Sister, if you dey run a business and you don tire of hearing "no capital, no market, no connection" as excuse, this one na for you. IFC — the private sector arm of the World Bank Group — don expand their She Wins Africa program from 100 to 1,000 women entrepreneurs across sub-Saharan Africa, and Nigeria don already key in through the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment.

This no be one-off grant wey them go drop money give you comot. Na a full package: training on how to make your business investment-ready, mentorship, connection to investors, and in some cases, seed capital and grant funding to help you scale.

WHO CAN APPLY

Women founders or co-founders of a legally registered small or medium business (SME)

Business must be located in a sub-Saharan African country (Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, and others across West, East, Central, North and Southern Africa are all part of the target regions)

Open to different sectors, but tech, agribusiness, manufacturing, creative industries, renewable energy, and services are getting priority

Business must show real potential to grow, create jobs, and impact community — this no be just for paper businesses

Previous participants of similar IFC women's programs may not be eligible again

WHY YOU SHOULD APPLY

If you don dey struggle to raise money for your business, you sabi as e be — banks dey always ask for collateral wey person no get, and investors no too dey find small businesses outside Lagos or Nairobi. She Wins Africa dey built to solve exactly this problem. From the first cohort, women wey pass through the program mobilised over $4 million in follow-on financing, with investment partners like Sahel Capital and other regional funds coming in after the training. Beyond the money, you go get investor connections, business mentorship, and access to a network wey fit change your business story.

APPLICATION STATUS AND DEADLINE

As at now, the official application portal for this expanded 1,000-women phase never open. IFC and the Nigerian government say application details, deadlines, and information sessions go dey published on official program channels soon. No be scam, na just say the timing never reach.

HOW TO STAY UPDATED / WHERE TO GET CORRECT INFORMATION

Official IFC She Wins Africa page: https://www.ifc.org/en/where-we-work/africa/promoting-gender-equality-in-africa/she-wins-africa

Email the IFC She Wins Africa team directly: SheWinsAfrica@ifc.org

Follow IFC's official channels: their WhatsApp channel and social media pages linked from ifc.org

A WORD OF CAUTION

Because this program dey trend, some fake websites don already start to circulate — impersonating IFC and asking women to submit personal information for a "grant portal" wey no relate to IFC at all. Always confirm any link start with ifc.org before you submit any information anywhere. If in doubt, email SheWinsAfrica@ifc.org directly to confirm.

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 GIRLS WHO YAP FELLOWSHIP 2.0 — APPLICATIONS ARE OPEN

Calling all women in tech, AI, content, and business — the Girls Who Yap Fellowship 2.0 is officially open for applications, and this one is bigger than the first.

What is it about?

Girls Who Yap Fellowship 2.0 is a women-first AI fellowship run by Dora DAO, designed to help women learn, build, and grow together over a 4-week hands-on experience. This edition is going all-in on AI — not just the tech side, but how AI intersects with marketing, content, business, and creativity too.

Inside the fellowship, you get:

A girls-only hackathon (a first-of-its-kind marketing/tech hackathon), with mentors and judges from companies like Google, OpenAI, Microsoft, NASSCOM, Claude, and Gemini

Weekly sessions with founders and creators

Challenges and bounties where you can actually earn while you build (past fellows earned an average of 2,000–5,000 naira-equivalent per video from bounties)

A tight-knit community — Discord hangouts, WhatsApp groups, pizza nights, and real friendships beyond the "program" feel

Who is it for?

This fellowship is open to anyone who identifies as female — from school students to college students, creators to founders, marketers to designers, and even professionals like psychologists. You don't need to be a tech person. If you're curious, willing to build, and want real community and industry access, you qualify.

Eligibility: Open globally to women everywhere, including Nigeria. No country or state restriction has been stated — this is an international, remote fellowship.

Deadline for submission

20th July, 2026

Apply using the link below 👇🏼 

https://www.goavo.ai/events/forms/fillup?id=6a362b917d98e2a99746494e

Read More »

APPLY FOR THE AFRICAN SCHOOL OF GOVERNANCE YOUNG & EMERGING LEADERS PROGRAMME 2026

 Opportunity Alert: Apply for the ASG Young & Emerging Leaders Programme 2026 — Deadline is July 3!

If you are a young African between the ages of 18 and 35 with a passion for leadership, community impact, and creating change, this one is for you. The African School of Governance (ASG) has officially opened applications for its 2026 Executive Leadership Programmes, and one of the two tracks is specifically designed for young and emerging leaders like you.

What Is the African School of Governance (ASG)?

The African School of Governance (ASG) is a graduate institution founded by H.E. Paul Kagame, President of Rwanda, and H.E. Hailemariam Desalegn, former Prime Minister of Ethiopia, in partnership with prominent African leaders, academics, and philanthropists. Its mission is to nurture leaders who drive Africa's sustainable development through innovative public policy education, research, and a platform for transformative governance tailored to the continent's unique realities. 

ASG is supported by strong strategic partnerships with world-class institutions, including the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy at the National University of Singapore and the Mastercard Foundation. 

What Is This Programme About?

The 2026 Executive Leadership Programmes are designed to support leadership development across different career stages — from young changemakers driving community transformation to senior professionals leading complex institutions and systems. 

There are two tracks. The one featured in this post — and the one most relevant to young Africans — is:

Programme 1: Leadership Fundamentals for High Performance

This programme targets young and emerging leaders aged 18 to 35 and provides participants with practical leadership skills necessary for creating meaningful change within their communities, organisations, and countries. The curriculum focuses on three key leadership dimensions:

 Leading Self — developing self-awareness, resilience, personal values, and a strong sense of purpose;

 Leading Others — strengthening communication skills, team leadership, coaching abilities, and trust-building; and

 Leading Systems — understanding institutional dynamics, systems thinking, organisational performance, and change management. 

Who Should Apply?

For Programme 1, particular emphasis is placed on encouraging applications from women leaders, refugees and displaced young people, young people living with disabilities, and leaders from underserved and marginalised communities. 

This means if you are an Arewa woman, a community leader, a social entrepreneur, or a young person working to build something meaningful — ASG is actively calling for people like you.

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered, you must:

Be able to fully participate in all programme activities between 3 and 26 August 2026, attend both virtual and in-person learning sessions, meet the age requirement (18–35 for Programme 1), communicate effectively in English, and be able to travel to Kigali, Rwanda for the residential component. 

Programme Format and Dates

Successful applicants will participate in a blended learning experience running from 3 August to 26 August 2026, combining online learning with an in-person residential component in Kigali, Rwanda. 

Programme Fee

The participation fee is set at USD 495. Recognising that financial barriers can limit access, ASG has made a limited number of sponsored places available. If the cost is a concern, apply early and indicate your need — sponsored seats are limited.

Deadline

⏰ Applications close on 3 July 2026. That is just days away — do not wait!

According to ASG, the application form takes approximately 15 to 25 minutes to complete. Following the application deadline, shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next stages of the selection process. 

Country Eligibility

This programme is open to young Africans across the continent. ASG encourages applications from diverse groups of leaders across Africa. There is no single-country restriction — if you are African, you are eligible.

How to Apply

Visit the ASG official website and application portal: admissions.asg.ac or go to asg.ac for full programme details.

Share this with a young leader in your life. The deadline is July 3 — time is running out!

Read More »

 Call for Social Media Advocates: Join YouthHub Africa's SSCE Project to End Child Marriage

If you're passionate about youth advocacy and skilled at using social media for good, YouthHub Africa has an opportunity for you. They're recruiting Social Media Advocates for the Strengthening Systems and Communities to End Child Marriage (SSCE) project, and applications are open now.

What is the SSCE Project?

SSCE is a Nigeria-focused initiative working to end child marriage by tackling the problem from multiple angles at once. According to project partners, child marriage rarely results from a single decision — it emerges from the intersection of poverty, disrupted education, social expectations, and institutional gap. The project's approach is to strengthen the systems around the issue: state systems that can plan and implement effectively, civil society coalitions that can sustain advocacy and accountability, credible evidence that informs decisions, and community and youth voices recognised as essential to solutions.

YouthHub Africa is one of several organisations working in partnership to support coordinated, accountable efforts to end child marriage in Nigeria, alongside partners like Education as a Vaccine, with backing from the Malala Fund. Importantly, SSCE is not a promise of quick solutions, but a commitment to building the conditions that allow change to take hold — long-term systems change rather than a one-off campaign.

What the Social Media Advocate Role Involves

This call is for young people who already have an active social media presence and influence within their communities. The role builds on YouthHub Africa's long-running model of training young digital creators to drive social change — they've previously run a similar Youth Social Media Advocates programme with UNFPA, designed to expand its reach to young Nigerians who are existing social media influencers and empower them with requisite skills and resources to share information with other young persons within their communities and their social networks both online and offline  . Advocates use social media as a tool and strategy to raise awareness, share impact stories, and connect with relevant stakeholders to drive social change  on the issue at hand — in this case, ending child marriage.

Who Can Apply (Eligibility)

Applicants must be between 18 and 30 years old

Must be residents of one of the focal states: Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Kaduna, Kano, or the Federal Capital Territory (FCT)

Must be available to attend a 3-day virtual training in July 2026

Application Link

👉 https://bit.ly/C4YOSMA

Deadline

🗓️ 30th June, 2026

Why It Matters

This is a chance to get trained, supported, and equipped to use your existing online platform for real social impact — turning storytelling and digital influence into a tool for advancing girls' rights and ending child marriage in some of the regions most affected by the practice.

For more on YouthHub Africa's work, visit www.youthhubafrica.org or follow them on social media @youthhubafrica.

Read More »

SHEY YOU SABI? THE CREATIVE SUSTAINABILITY GRANT FOR AFRICANS ARTISTS IS OPEN.

 Shey You Sabi? The Creative Sustainability Grant for African Artists is Open — But Hurry, Deadline is Almost Here!

If you're a creative across Africa — painter, writer, sculptor, poet, digital artist, performer, it doesn't matter your medium — there's a free grant opportunity you need to know about right now: "Shey You Sabi?" — The Creative Sustainability Grant for African Artists 

What Is It For?

This is an open call designed to celebrate and sustain excellence in Africa's artistic practice. One winner will walk away with:

N150,000 cash grant, OR

A professionally executed solo-salon exhibition to showcase their work

It's a chance to either get direct financial support for your craft or have your work professionally presented to a wider audience — your choice.

Who Is It For?

Eligibility:

-Open to all Visual & Non-Visual Artists across Africa (continent-wide — no specific country or state restriction)

-All mediums welcome: Painting, Writing, Sculpting, Poetry, Digital Art, Performance, and more

-Open to all career stages — whether you're just starting out or a seasoned creative

-100% free to apply — no entry fees

How to Apply

Submit an image of one (1) artwork or creative composition through either of these channels:

Instagram DM: @jekami_adetiloye

Email: adetiloyejekami21@gmail.com

There's no separate application website or form link mentioned — submissions go directly via Instagram DM or email as above.

Deadline ⏰

June 1st – June 21st, 2026

This window is closing extremely soon — if today is June 20th, you only have until tomorrow, June 21st, to get your submission in. Don't sleep on this one — send in your strongest piece today.

Know an African artist who needs to see this? Tag them or share this post — every creative deserves a shot at being seen and supported.

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 WHO YOUTH COUNCIL 2026–2028: Applications Are Now Open for Youth Organizations Worldwide

The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially opened its call for expressions of interest for the third term of the WHO Youth Council (2026–2028). This is a major opening for youth-led and youth-focused organizations — including those across Nigeria and the wider Arewa region — to sit at the table where global health policy is shaped.

What Is the WHO Youth Council?

The WHO Youth Council exists to bring young people's insight directly into how the World Health Organization makes decisions. Rather than treating youth voices as an afterthought, the Council gives youth-led and youth-focused organizations a structured platform to advise WHO, advocate for public health priorities, and help build healthier, more equitable systems globally. This is the Council's third term, following successful runs from 2022–2024 and 2024–2026.

Who Can Apply?

This is important to understand before you apply: the WHO Youth Council accepts applications from organizations, not individual applicants. WHO is inviting expressions of interest from:

-Youth-led organizations

-Youth-focused organizations

-Youth chapters of larger national or international organizations

-Organizations must be active at the international level, and WHO is intentionally seeking a balanced mix of both health and non-health organizations to reflect the full range of issues affecting young people today.

Eligibility by country: This call is open globally — there is no country or region restriction. Organizations from Nigeria, across Africa, and anywhere in the world are eligible to apply, as long as they meet WHO's organizational eligibility criteria in the official Terms of Reference.

One extra step to note: WHO is asking all Youth Council members to also be part of the WHO Civil Society Commission. If your organization isn't already a member, you'll need to apply there first before — or alongside — submitting your Youth Council expression of interest.

Why It Matters

-Elevate youth voices — represent your community's health priorities on a global stage

-Shape global health policy — contribute directly to WHO strategies and decisions

-Drive change for healthier societies — turn advocacy into real, structural influence

Key Details

-Who can apply: Youth-led, youth-focused, or youth-chapter organizations (international level)

-Eligible countries: Open worldwide — no country restriction

Application deadline: 23:59 CEST, 30 June 2026

First in-person meeting: October 2026

Cost to apply: Free

How to Apply

Applying involves two required submissions:

Complete the online WHO Youth Council Application Form

Submit the Tobacco-Arms Disclosure Form

Applications are assessed on how well the organization meets the eligibility criteria, how it adds to the Council's diversity, and the strength of its motivation, plans, and relevant experience. WHO advises applying well ahead of the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues.

Apply here: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=t8AQ9iS9OUuBCz3CgK-1kLmOrsJSHKlJkLjwJp81HMRUNlhPUlAwUTRVMkdYM04xSVNJTUFQU1hMVC4u

Before applying, read these reference documents carefully:

WHO Youth Council Terms of Reference: https://cdn.who.int/media/docs/default-source/youth-engagement/tor_whoyouthcouncil.pdf

Tobacco-Arms Disclosure Form: https://cdn.who.int/media/docs/default-source/youth-engagement/tobacco-arms-disclosure-statement.pdf

WHO Civil Society Commission — How to Participate: https://www.who.int/about/collaboration/civil-society-and-ngo-engagement/civil-society-commission/how-to-participate

 Tip👇🏼

If you run a women's empowerment group, a youth business or health initiative, or a youth chapter under a larger Arewa or Nigerian organization, this is worth serious consideration. A seat on the WHO Youth Council isn't just visibility — it's a direct line into how global health policy gets written, with real implications for the communities you already serve.

Read More »

UNDP/OLAM AGRI BAKER'S MASTERCLASS. FREE TRAINING IN KANO STATE

 Apply Now: UNDP/Olam Agri Baker's Masterclass — Free Training for Bakers in Kano State

Are you a baker, or an aspiring baker looking to sharpen your skills and take your craft to the next level? Here's an opportunity worth your attention.

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP Nigeria), in partnership with Olam Agri and funded by the Government of Japan, is calling for applications to the Baker's Masterclass at the Olam Baking Academy in Kano State a fully funded, intensive training program that runs for two weeks, commencing on August 3rd, 2026, taking place at the Olam Baking Academy in Kano with access to modern baking facilities and expert instruction.

The Olam Baking Academy itself isn't new to this kind of work — it was originally launched in February 2023 as the Crown Flour Angels Baking Academy, an initiative under Olam Agri's Seeds for the Future Foundation specifically targeting women, equipping them with commercial baking skills to boost their earnings and benefit their families and communities. 

This new Masterclass builds on that legacy with fresh UNDP and Japanese government backing.

Who Is This For?

This program is open to:

-Professional bakers seeking to upgrade their skills

-Aspiring bakers looking to start or grow a baking career

-Individuals passionate about baking and food production

Whether you're already running a baking business or just starting out, the programme is designed to help participants develop practical skills, improve techniques, build confidence, and strengthen their ability to succeed in the baking industry, with hands-on training from industry professionals.

What You Get

This is a fully funded opportunity, meaning:

-No training fees

-Accommodation fully covered for selected participants

-Feeding provided throughout the program

-Transportation/logistics support included

-Hands-on training from experienced professionals

-Skills development in advanced baking techniques and business know-how

A major advantage of this programme is that selected participants don't need to worry about the cost of attending training in Kano   — meaning applicants from different parts of Nigeria can take part without bearing the financial burden of transportation or lodging.

Key Details

Location

Olam Baking Academy, Kano State

Application Deadline

3rd July, 2026

Training Duration

2 weeks, starting August 3rd, 2026

Cost

Free (accommodation, feeding & logistics covered)

Apply Using the link below 👇🏼 

https://forms.gle/MeNQR86SgWvVYNQ1A

Why This Matters

Nigeria's bakery industry is one of the fastest-growing segments in the food sector, and Kano was chosen deliberately as a hub for this kind of empowerment given its strategic position in Northern Nigeria's food economy. For Arewa women and aspiring entrepreneurs especially, this is a rare chance to gain industry-grade training, build a real skill set, and open doors to entrepreneurship or employment in baking — completely free of cost.

If you've been thinking about formalizing your baking skills or finally taking your home bakery to the next level, this is your sign. Spots are limited, applications close 3rd July 2026 — don't wait until the last minute.

Read More »

AU-EU Youth Voices Third-Party Funding Mechanism 2026: Up to €10,000 for Nigerian Youth-Led Organizations

 AU-EU Youth Voices Third-Party Funding Mechanism 2026: Up to €10,000 Youth-Led Organizations

If your organization is youth-led and working to create real change in your community, here is a funding opportunity you should not sleep on. The AU-EU Youth Voices Third-Party Funding Mechanism (TPFM) 2026 is open for applications, and Nigeria is one of the eligible countries.

What Is It About?

The Youth Voices Third-Party Funding Mechanism (TPFM) is a grant initiative under the AU-EU Youth Voices Lab – Power of the Collective. It empowers youth-led organizations to develop projects that amplify marginalized voices, drive advocacy, and strengthen youth networks.  

In simple terms, if your group is working on issues that young Nigerians face — gender inequality, youth unemployment, civic exclusion, climate justice, poor governance — this grant can fund your solution. This funding opportunity aims to strengthen youth participation in advocacy, coalition-building, and policy engagement at the national, regional, and continental levels. 

The second edition of the Third-Party Funding Mechanism officially opened on 8 June 2026. This cycle aims to support youth-led organizations in delivering impactful projects that contribute to youth participation, empowerment, and advocacy. 

Grant Amount

The Youth Voices Third-Party Funding Mechanism supports youth-led advocacy initiatives by providing microgrants ranging from €1,000 to €10,000 per collective to youth-led groups from intervention countries and the youth diaspora to support their actions.  Each grant lasts for a period of 12 months.

What Can the Money Be Used For?

You can use the grant to run workshops and trainings, youth-led research, advocacy campaigns, community dialogues and consultations, publications and policy briefs, digital or print awareness materials, and civic engagement or accountability initiatives. The programme covers a wide range of issues — from education, gender equality, and peacebuilding, to employment, climate justice, and community development.

Eligibility

To qualify, your organization must meet the following criteria:

-Include decision-makers aged 15–35, with at least 70% of staff/volunteers under 35.  

-Be registered as an NGO, association, trade union, collective, or network of these entities.  

-Have experience working with marginalized or underserved communities.

-Be operating in one of the 15 intervention countries of the programme: Cameroon, Burundi, South Sudan, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Tunisia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Burkina Faso, and Belgium.  

Yes, Nigerian organizations are eligible.

Application Deadline

The application deadline is 29 June 2026 at 23:59 EAT. That is less than three weeks from today, so start preparing now.

Support Webinar

To help applicants prepare strong proposals, an online support webinar will be held on 19 June 2026.  The webinar will cover application guidance, eligibility clarification, proposal development tips, and a Q&A session. You are strongly encouraged to attend.

How to Apply

To apply, review the Funding Manual, confirm your eligibility, and submit your proposal through the online application form before the deadline. You can also reach out to the team at au-euyvlfund@restlessdevelopment.org for inquiries.

Apply here: https://aueuyouthvoiceslab.eu/grants/

For the online application form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfuJyN5AvOzI5UjBILMEk8o2u1_q63jfzNXSr4MiN75r84c7Q/viewform

This is a real opportunity backed by the African Union and the European Union. If your youth group has been doing the work but struggling with funding, this is the time to apply. Get your proposal ready, join the June 19 webinar, and submit before June 29.

Read More »

 WinTech Cohort 4: Free Digital Skills Training for Women Is Open in Kano — Apply Before June 25

If you are a woman in Kano who has been wanting to learn graphic design, web design, or digital marketing but did not know where to start — this is your moment. Startup Kano's WinTech programme is back with Cohort 4, and applications are now open.

What Is WinTech?

WinTech is a digital skills training programme run by Startup Kano, an incubation and acceleration hub based in Kano that promotes technology, entrepreneurship, and digital inclusion. The programme is specifically designed for women, under the tagline "Empowering Women in Tech and Business."

Now in its fourth cohort, WinTech trains women in practical digital skills that they can use to grow their careers, start businesses, or offer services as freelancers. It is delivered in-person at the Startup Kano hub on Maiduguri Road, Kundila, Kano.

What Will You Learn?

WinTech Cohort 4 covers three key digital skills tracks:

Graphic Design — Learn to create professional visuals, brand materials, and digital content

Web Design — Learn to build and design websites for businesses and clients

Digital Marketing — Learn how to grow brands, run ads, and attract customers online

The programme does not just end with training. It ends with a Pitch/Demo Day, where participants get to showcase what they have built and learned — a real opportunity to gain visibility and confidence.

Who Is This For?

This programme is open to women who want to gain digital skills to improve their career opportunities. Whether you are a student, a business owner, a stay-at-home mum, or someone looking to change careers — if you are female and ready to learn, you qualify.

Startup Kano has built a technology ecosystem that is inclusive and sustainable for all, and their open lab and space promote entrepreneurship and digital inclusion, providing a conducive and friendly environment that supports peer learning and collaboration. 

This is especially valuable for Arewa women in Kano who want to build digital skills without having to travel out of state. The training, mentorship, and community support happen right here at home.

Why You Should Apply

Digital skills are among the highest-earning and most flexible skills in today's economy. With graphic design, web design, or digital marketing skills, you can:

Offer freelance services to businesses locally and internationally

Build and market your own business online

Get hired by companies and agencies in Nigeria

Work remotely from anywhere

There are only 15 slots available for this cohort. That is intentional — it means you get focused attention, mentorship, and real community support. Not a crowd. A cohort.

Kano has emerged as the seventh leading startup hub in Nigeria, with a 25% market share of the Northern Nigeria startup scene (Crunchbase) — and programmes like WinTech are part of what is building that momentum. Being part of this ecosystem now means you grow with it.

How to Apply

Click the link below to apply before the deadline:

👉 https://bit.ly/Wintech2026

Deadline: June 25, 2026. Do not wait — with only 15 slots, this will fill up fast.

You can also follow Startup Kano on all social media platforms @startupkano or visit their website at www.startupkano.com for more information.

Know a woman who needs this? Share this post. One share can change someone's direction.

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 OCHF Business Growth Grant – Cycle 2 Special Edition: Win Up to ₦1,000,000 for Your Business

If you have been looking for free money to grow your business, this one is worth your full attention. The Ojeri Nkporo Charity Foundation (OCHF) is back with a bigger, better round of its Business Growth Grant — and this time, the stakes are higher.

About the Programme

The OCHF Business Growth Grant is an initiative by the Ojeri Nkporo Charity Foundation designed to empower small business owners and emerging founders who need financial support to expand their ventures and strengthen their operations.  

Cycle 1 supported entrepreneurs with ₦500,000 each. Cycle 2 — Special Edition is stepping it up, with grants ranging from ₦500,000 to ₦1,000,000. This is non-repayable funding — meaning you don't pay it back. You just use it to grow.

The grant money can be used to improve business processes, purchase equipment, invest in marketing, or expand product and service offerings. In short, you decide where the money makes the most sense for your business.

One key detail from the flyer: finalists will be handpicked by the CEO and Founder of OCHF personally. This means your application needs to be clear, honest, and compelling.

Who Is It For?

The grant is open to existing businesses looking for growth capital as well as early-stage founders who already have validated business concepts. Nigerians both within the country and in the diaspora are eligible to apply, particularly entrepreneurs committed to scaling their businesses responsibly and transparently. 

To qualify, you must:

-Be running an active business

-Have a business with clear growth potential

-Be able to explain specifically how the grant will help you scale

-Demonstrate commitment to sustainability and transparency

Eligibility

Country: Nigeria (home and diaspora)

Grant Amount

₦500,000 – ₦1,000,000 (non-repayable)

Application Window

June 8 – July 6, 2026

Apply using the link below 👇🏼 

Apply Here

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SMEDAN Is Calling Nigerian Startups! Apply for the Start-up Digital Innovation Academy 2026 — Deadline: June 12

 SMEDAN Is Calling Nigerian Startups! Apply for the Start-up Digital Innovation Academy 2026 — Deadline: June 12

Are you running an early-stage startup in Nigeria? Do you have a business with strong growth potential and you're ready to scale? Here is a government-backed opportunity you cannot afford to miss.

The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) has officially opened applications for its Start-up Digital Innovation Academy, hosted at the prestigious Abuja Centre for Entrepreneurship (ACE). This is a full capacity-building programme designed to equip Nigerian entrepreneurs with world-class skills, seed funding access, mentorship, and investor connections — all at no cost to you.

About SMEDAN and the Programme

SMEDAN is Nigeria's federal agency mandated to promote the development of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across the country. As part of its broader mission to strengthen Nigeria's startup and innovation ecosystem, SMEDAN established the Abuja Centre for Entrepreneurship (ACE) — a hub dedicated to nurturing the next generation of Nigerian business leaders.

The Start-up Digital Innovation Academy is one of ACE's flagship programmes, bringing together early-stage and growth-ready founders under one roof for intensive, practical training in entrepreneurship, AI, and digital business scaling.

 Who Should Apply?

This programme is specifically designed for:

Early-stage startups looking to build a solid foundation

Ready-to-scale startups with strong growth potential

Startups with a proven business model

Youth-led or youth-owned ventures — founders preferably between 18 and 35 years

Innovative businesses already leveraging or willing to leverage digital technology, AI, or innovation

If your startup ticks any of these boxes, this is your sign to apply today.

🌍 Eligibility

This programme is open to Nigerian startups across the country. There is no state restriction mentioned — founders from all 36 states and the FCT are encouraged to apply.

💎 What You Will Gain

Selected participants will benefit from:

✅ World-class training in Entrepreneurship, AI, Digital Innovation, and Business Scaling

✅ Expert mentorship and coaching from seasoned industry professionals

✅ Seed Funding for top-performing startups

✅ Access to networks, investors, and industry partners

✅ Incubation and post-programme support to sustain your growth beyond the academy

This is not just a training — it is a full ecosystem of support to help your startup go from idea to impact.

📅 Application Deadline

12th June, 2026

Applications close in a matter of days — do not wait until the last minute. Fill your application immediately and take the first bold step toward scaling your startup.

🔗 How to Apply

Visit the official application link: http://bit.ly/4nEZxmk

You can also follow @smedangov on Instagram for updates and announcements.

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FULLY FUNDED GREEN LEADERS FELLOWSHIP 2026

 Officially Green Leaders Fellowship 2026 — Fully Funded | Apply Before August 26

Are you passionate about climate action, sustainability, and leading change in your community? This one is for you.

The Green Institute has opened applications for one of Nigeria's most prestigious sustainability leadership programmes — the Officially Green Leaders Fellowship 2026. This is a fully funded national initiative designed to raise a new generation of environmental leaders from every corner of Nigeria, and it could be your gateway to becoming the sustainability voice of your state.

What Is the Officially Green Leaders Fellowship?

Convened by The Green Institute, the Officially Green Leaders Fellowship is a national initiative designed to identify and equip one exceptional sustainability leader from each of Nigeria's 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The Fellowship is more than a training programme — it is a coordinated national movement to institutionalise sustainability leadership across Nigeria. 

This immersive residency brings together emerging climate advocates, sustainability professionals, and community change-makers for an intensive week of advanced leadership training, strategic collaboration, and structured action planning.  

Who Is This Fellowship For?

This opportunity is designed for Nigerians who are already doing the work — or who have a burning desire to do it. The fellowship is open to individuals from diverse professional backgrounds, including civil society, academia, public service, private sector, and grassroots initiatives.  

To qualify, you must:

-Be a resident of one of Nigeria's 36 states  

-Demonstrate commitment to sustainability, climate action, or environmental leadership  

-Show evidence of leadership potential or community engagement  

-Be available to participate fully in the one-week residential programme 

-- There is no strict age limit — the selection committee prioritises leadership capacity, impact potential, and commitment to sustainability.  

Eligibility by Country/State: This fellowship is open to Nigerian citizens residing in Nigeria only — one fellow per state, across all 36 states and the FCT.

What Will Fellows Learn?

The residency includes training in climate governance and policy, energy transition and green innovation, sustainability strategy and impact measurement, advocacy and stakeholder engagement, and cabinet formation and leadership structuring. It is designed to provide both strategic knowledge and practical implementation tools.  

Specifically, the programme covers:

-Energy Transition & Green Innovation — renewable energy systems, circular economy models, green enterprise, and climate finance

-Climate Leadership & Governance — climate science, policy frameworks, SDGs localisation, and subnational governance

-State Green Action Blueprint Lab — a 12-month sustainability roadmap with clear KPIs, partnership mapping, and impact tracking

-Advocacy & Strategic Communication — policy advocacy, stakeholder engagement, media positioning, and public speaking

-State Sustainability Cabinet Formation — each fellow will design a cabinet with specialised roles including Renewable Energy Lead, Climate Education Coordinator, Biodiversity Officer, and more

What Does the Fellowship Cover?

Everything. This is fully funded.

Selected fellows will receive full residential accommodation for the one-week residency, all meals and refreshments throughout the programme, and transportation funding to and from the residency location. The fellowship removes financial barriers, ensuring selection is based solely on merit, leadership potential, and commitment to sustainability.  

There are no participation fees.

What Happens After the Residency?

Each fellow will return to their state as an Officially Green State Lead and will be responsible for establishing a State Sustainability Cabinet, implementing a 12-month State Green Action Blueprint, coordinating sustainability initiatives within their state, and participating in the national Officially Green Leaders Network. Fellows remain part of an active national leadership community. 

Within 12 months of the cohort, the programme aims to deliver:

-37 Operational State Sustainability Cabinets, coordinated national sustainability campaigns, state-level environmental initiatives implemented, strengthened youth-led climate advocacy nationwide, and a unified national ecosystem of sustainability leaders

How Competitive Is It?

Very. The Officially Green Leaders Fellowship is a highly competitive programme that selects 37 exceptional individuals — one per state and the FCT — based on merit, leadership potential, and commitment to sustainability. Multiple people from the same state can apply, but only one will be selected to represent that state.

Application Deadline

⏰ August 26, 2026

Late applications will not be considered. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted directly via email. Final selection announcements will be made following the review process. 

Early submission is strongly encouraged — spots are limited and competition is fierce.

How to Apply

Visit the official fellowship page and submit your application:

🌐 Official Website: greeninstitute.ng/greenleaders2026

📋 Application Portal: Apply Here

If you've been waiting for a platform to turn your passion for the environment into real, state-level impact — this is it. The Officially Green Leaders Fellowship is not just a programme; it is a mandate. Nigeria needs leaders who can drive sustainable change from the ground up, and this fellowship is investing in exactly that.

Apply today, represent your state, and become the green leader your community deserves.

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 CJID/UNESCO Storytelling Fellowship for Environmental Journalists in West Africa 2026

Fellowships & Capacity Building | Deadline: June 8, 2026

If you are a journalist in West Africa with a passion for environmental reporting, here is an opportunity you cannot afford to miss. The Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID), in partnership with the UNESCO Global Media Defence Fund (GMDF), is inviting environmental journalists to apply for a six-month investigative storytelling fellowship.  

About the Programme

The fellowship is designed to strengthen investigative journalism, enhance media safety awareness, and support compelling storytelling focused on violence and threats against environmental journalists in the region.  

Environmental journalists across West Africa face growing dangers for simply doing their job — exposing ecological threats, holding polluters accountable, and speaking truth on environmental injustice. This fellowship is a direct response to that reality.

The programme objectives are to:

provide training and mentorship for journalists who report on attacks against environmental journalists, strengthen capacity for investigative reporting, produce and publish stories on violence against environmental reporters, and disseminate work in line with international standards. 

Eligibility

Who Should Apply?

The fellowship is open to professional journalists currently resident in Ghana, Liberia, The Gambia, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone. Freelance/independent and female journalists are strongly encouraged to apply.  

Country Eligibility: Ghana, Liberia, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, The Gambia

Selection Process

Applications will undergo a thorough review with shortlisted candidates proceeding to the next stage. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Apply using the link below 👇🏼 

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdSdYbh7jxSDpqjqLLire-pL-AkvAbPw_fXEMzssdouBDZasQ/viewform

Application Deadline

📅 Monday, 8 June 2026

Do not wait until the last minute — gather your documents, prepare your pitch, and apply today. Share this with a journalist who needs to see it.

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