In today’s Nigeria, innovation is no longer a luxury; it’s survival. From tech founders in Lagos to agropreneurs in Kaduna and fashion visionaries in Aba, a new wave of fearless entrepreneurs is rewriting the narrative of African business.
Yet, for many brilliant minds with world-changing ideas, one obstacle stands tall and stubborn — access to funding.
If you’ve ever stayed up late sketching business ideas on scraps of paper or wondered how to turn your side hustle into a sustainable venture, this might just be the moment you’ve been waiting for.
Across Africa — and particularly in Nigeria — major organizations and government initiatives are opening their wallets and arms to support the next generation of business trailblazers.
The good news? You don’t have to go it alone. From the Tony Elumelu Foundation to the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund, a series of open grants and funding opportunities are now available — each designed to fuel ideas, nurture startups, and empower entrepreneurs who are ready to build, create, and transform their communities.
Whether you’re a woman leading a green business, a tech-driven innovator, or a small business owner simply looking to scale, these grants offer more than just money — they come with mentorship, training, and access to networks that could redefine your business journey forever.
So, if you’ve been waiting for a sign to take your business to the next level, this is it. Below is a curated list of active and upcoming grants currently open to Nigerian entrepreneurs and startups — your chance to move from dream to reality might just be one application away.
1. IYBA-WE4A (Tony Elumelu Foundation + EU/GIZ)
Application Period: 6 October 2025 – 25 January 2026
Who Can Apply: Women-led green businesses across Africa
Award/Benefit: USD 5,000 seed capital + training and mentorship
The IYBA-WE4A programme — short for Investing in Young Businesses in Africa – Women Entrepreneurs for Africa — is a powerhouse collaboration between the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF), the European Union (EU), and GIZ.
It’s designed specifically to empower women entrepreneurs who are driving sustainability and innovation across Africa.
This is more than a grant — it’s an ecosystem of growth. Selected participants will not only receive $5,000 in seed capital but will also gain exclusive access to world-class mentorship, business training, and visibility opportunities within Africa’s growing green economy.
If you’re a woman-led business focused on renewable energy, waste management, sustainable agriculture, or eco-friendly production, this could be the launchpad you’ve been waiting for.
2. BeGreen Africa Programme (Tony Elumelu Foundation)
Application Period: 6 October 2025 – 25 January 2026
Who Can Apply: Entrepreneurs running environmentally sustainable businesses
Award/Benefit: USD 5,000 seed funding + business support and mentorship
In a world shifting toward sustainability, the BeGreen Africa Programme shines as a beacon for those who want to build a business that’s both profitable and planet-friendly.
Also powered by the Tony Elumelu Foundation, this initiative supports entrepreneurs creating solutions that address environmental challenges while improving livelihoods.
The programme provides $5,000 in seed funding, plus intensive entrepreneurship training and mentorship to help turn eco-innovations into scalable businesses. Whether you’re into green tech, recycling, renewable energy, or sustainable agriculture, this grant is your gateway to global recognition.
3. Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF) Grant
Application Period: Ongoing / currently active (ends November 28)
Who Can Apply: Lagos-based MSMEs and startups
Award/Benefit: ₦500,000 – ₦5,000,000 funding + training and business development support
If your business is based in Lagos, this is your time to shine. The LSETF Grant is one of the state’s most impactful initiatives, designed to promote job creation, entrepreneurship, and innovation among Lagos residents.
The programme offers between ₦500,000 and ₦5 million in funding to eligible micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Beyond the money, LSETF provides training, mentorship, and access to a thriving network of business support organizations.
4. SMEDAN Conditional Grant Scheme
Application Period: Ongoing / currently active (verify directly with SMEDAN)
Who Can Apply: Micro and small enterprises registered in Nigeria
Award/Benefit: ₦50,000 grant to support business operations
Sometimes, the biggest breakthroughs start small — and that’s the idea behind the SMEDAN Conditional Grant Scheme.
Managed by the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria, this initiative provides micro and small enterprises with ₦50,000 in direct financial support to stabilize and grow their operations.
While the grant amount might seem modest, its real value lies in its accessibility and reach. SMEDAN aims to empower local entrepreneurs in every part of Nigeria, helping them strengthen their foundations and become sustainable over time.
Your Next Chapter Starts Now
Every global business success story starts with a single decision — to begin.
For Nigerian entrepreneurs, these grants are more than financial lifelines; they’re doors to opportunity, education, and exposure.
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Whether you’re building a tech startup, crafting sustainable fashion, or running a neighborhood business that provides essential services, there’s a grant designed for you.
The landscape of funding is changing — and Nigeria is at the center of that transformation.
Don’t wait for “someday.” The resources are available now. Take advantage of these opportunities, refine your ideas, and put your passion to work. Your next chapter in entrepreneurship could start with a single click on “Apply Now.”
