Discover the latest verified federal funding opportunities for young Nigerians in business, tech, and agriculture.
For years, many Nigerians have felt that government grants and empowerment schemes existed only on paper. But 2025 is turning the tide. Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, several verified and accessible federal grant programmes are now open — targeting young Nigerians in entrepreneurship, technology, and creative industries.
If you’ve been waiting for a genuine funding opportunity to grow your business or career, this guide will show you five real federal grants and how to apply.
1️⃣ YEIDEP — Youth Economic Intervention & De-Radicalisation Programme
The Youth Economic Intervention and De-Radicalisation Programme (YEIDEP) is one of the government’s most ambitious youth-focused initiatives.
It aims to tackle unemployment, poverty, and insecurity through grants, training, and business support, especially in agribusiness and skill-based enterprises.
Grant Details:
- Individual funding between ₦50,000 – ₦500,000
- Linked to a national $2.5 billion youth intervention package
- Includes skill acquisition and mentorship tracks
Eligibility:
Nigerian youths aged 18–35 are eligible to apply. The next batch of applications will open soon, and shortlisted candidates will be contacted via the official YEIDEP website.
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2️⃣ Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme (NJFP) — 12-Month Paid Internship
The Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme (NJFP) is a collaboration between the Federal Government, the European Union (EU), and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
It connects talented Nigerian graduates with top organizations for a year-long paid internship to build their careers.
Benefits:
- Monthly stipend of ₦150,000
- Job placement in reputable companies across Nigeria
- 12 months of hands-on work experience and training
The NJFP 2.0 edition is expected to reopen in October 2025, with updated application guidelines and portal access.
Eligibility:
- Applicants must be Nigerian graduates who have completed NYSC.
- Selection involves an aptitude test, video interview, and psychometric assessment.
- Successful fellows gain long-term access to the NJFP Talent Hub for post-internship career support.
3️⃣ SMEDAN Pitch Competition — ₦5 Billion Student Grant Initiative
The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) is running a ₦5 billion grant programme to empower students and young entrepreneurs with viable business ideas.
This initiative helps youths launch or expand small businesses through conditional financial support.
Eligibility & Application:
- Open to students and young entrepreneurs with a strong business plan.
- Applicants submit a proposal detailing the business concept and expected impact.
- Winners receive seed funding and mentorship to scale their ventures.
Visit the official SMEDAN portal for the next application round.
4️⃣ Bank of Agriculture (BOA) — National Smallholder Farmers Fund
The Bank of Agriculture, in partnership with the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), has launched a $1 billion Smallholder Farmers Fund.
This programme supports Nigerian farmers with access to affordable credit, equipment financing, and storage infrastructure.
Key Features:
- Low-interest loans for inputs (fertilizers, seeds, machinery)
- Support for processing and market linkages
- Strengthens food security and agricultural exports
Who Can Apply:
- Open to registered farmers and cooperatives.
- Applicants are encouraged to open an account with the Bank of Agriculture and follow the official registration process.
5️⃣ FGN-ALAT Digital Skillnovation Programme — Grants & Loans for Startups
The FGN-ALAT Digital Skillnovation Programme, a collaboration between the Federal Government of Nigeria and Wema Bank, offers grants and soft loans to tech-driven businesses and innovative startups.
Focus Sectors:
- Agriculture
- Retail & e-commerce
- Real estate & clean energy
- Data, logistics, and digital infrastructure
Funding Opportunities:
- Grants: up to ₦500,000 for early-stage startups
- Loans: up to ₦5 million for growing SMEs
Businesses must demonstrate scalability, innovation, and impact potential within the Nigerian market.
How to Prepare Before Applying for Any Federal Grant
To increase your chances of success:
– Have a registered business name or CAC certificate
– Prepare a clear business plan or pitch deck
– Keep your BVN, NIN, and valid ID ready
– Ensure you apply only through official government portals
Quick Links to Federal Grant Portals (2025)
- YEIDEP: Official Portal (Coming Soon)
- NJFP: https://www.njfp.ng
- SMEDAN: https://www.smedan.gov.ng
- BOA: https://www.boanig.com
- FGN-ALAT: https://fg-skillnovation.alat.ng
2025 is shaping up to be a breakthrough year for young Nigerians who are ready to take action.
With the right preparation and genuine intent, these federal grants can help you grow your business, career, or community project.
At CHIExclusive Hub, we’re committed to keeping you informed about digital empowerment, funding opportunities, and personal development tools to help you succeed.
