FG offers ₦5m grant to young Nigerian entrepreneurs – how to apply

The Federal Government (FG) has announced grants of up to ₦5 million for young Nigerian entrepreneurs through the NiYA × Cascador Founders Programme, a four-week initiative designed to support business development, investment readiness, pitch preparation and mentorship.

The programme is being implemented by the Federal Ministry of Youth Development in partnership with Cascador and Sapphital, with 20 young founders set to be selected for the pilot cohort.

At the end of the programme, the eight top-performing founders will be eligible to receive up to ₦5 million each in non-dilutive funding from Cascador.

The selected funding recipients will also receive an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) solution to help improve business management, structure and growth.

The programme is designed to help early-stage entrepreneurs develop stronger business fundamentals, improve their investment readiness and learn how to present their businesses effectively to potential investors.

Participants will take part in training sessions, mentorship, virtual engagements and a final Pitch Day, where their progress and business ideas will be assessed.

However, selection into the 20-member cohort does not automatically guarantee funding. Only the eight top-performing participants will be considered for the funding, subject to the programme’s assessment and funding conditions.

Applicants are also required to provide accurate information during the application process. The organisers reserve the right to verify information submitted and disqualify applicants who provide false or misleading details.

How to apply

Young Nigerian entrepreneurs interested in the programme can apply through the NiYA × Cascador Founders Programme application portal.

Applicants should create a profile, provide the required personal and business information and complete the application form before submitting it for consideration.

The programme is powered by the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, with Cascador serving as the funder/donor and Sapphital as the implementing partner

Successful applicants will be expected to commit to the full four-week programme and actively participate in the training, mentorship and pitch activities.