Top Grants and Funding Opportunities Nigerians Can Apply for in 2025
In a time when many Nigerians are looking for ways to grow their businesses and improve their livelihoods, several local and international organizations have launched programs designed to empower entrepreneurs, startups, women, and young innovators. These grants and funding opportunities are not only helping people access capital but are also building the foundation for sustainable growth across the nation.
This initiative, backed by the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, aims to turn creative ideas into profitable ventures that generate jobs and promote Nigerian talent globally.
The LSETF continues to empower entrepreneurs and small business owners within Lagos State by providing loans, grants, and business training.
Funding: Up to ₦5 million.
Who Can Apply: Registered businesses operating in Lagos State.
Key Benefits: Access to funding, mentorship, and entrepreneurship training.
Apply via: lsetf.lagosstate.gov.ng
LSETF has supported thousands of businesses, helping them scale and create employment opportunities across sectors like fashion, tech, agriculture, and manufacturing.
Bank of Industry (BOI) Youth Entrepreneurship Support (YES)
The BOI YES Programme targets young Nigerians aged 18–35 with innovative business ideas. It offers both funding and capacity-building support.
Funding: Loans of up to ₦10 million.
Eligibility: Youths with registered businesses or viable business plans.
Benefits: Entrepreneurship training, mentoring, and access to finance.
How to Apply: Visit boi.ng
This program is a lifeline for ambitious youth who have great ideas but lack the financial support to bring them to life.
Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) Entrepreneurship Programme
The Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) is one of Africa’s largest private entrepreneurship programs, supporting thousands of startups annually.
Funding: Non-refundable seed capital of $5,000.
Coverage: Open to all sectors across Nigeria and Africa.
Benefits: Mentorship, business management training, and networking.
Apply via: tefconnect.com
.
Since inception, the TEF programme has empowered over 18,000 entrepreneurs across Africa, with many turning their small ideas into scalable businesses.
AWIEF Grants for Women Entrepreneurs
The African Women Innovation & Entrepreneurship Forum (AWIEF) supports women-led businesses across Africa with funding, mentorship, and training.
Funding: Between $10,000–$25,000.
Eligibility: Women entrepreneurs with registered and growth-focused businesses.
How to Apply: Visit awiefportal.org
This initiative encourages gender equality and supports women in driving Africa’s economic growth through innovation and entrepreneurship.
“The key to winning grants isn’t just having a great idea — it’s about proving that your business can make an impact, create jobs, and solve real problems.”
Before submitting your applications, ensure that your business is registered (CAC), prepare a solid business plan, and highlight your community impact. Most organizations want to see how their funding will lead to measurable growth and social change.
Access to funding remains one of the biggest challenges for entrepreneurs in Nigeria. However, these grants and programs provide a lifeline for those willing to put in the effort, structure their businesses properly, and apply early.
Whether you’re a creative, a youth innovator, or a small business owner, this is the time to take advantage of these opportunities to grow your venture and contribute to Nigeria’s economic progress.
