Securing funding is one of the most common hurdles faced by Nigerian entrepreneurs. Whether you’re launching a new idea or expanding an existing venture, having access to capital can make all the difference. Thankfully, several local and international organizations are offering small business grants in Nigeria — giving entrepreneurs a chance to grow without the pressure of repayment.
In this post, we explore five major grant opportunities Nigerian business owners should know about in 2025.
1. Tony Elumelu Entrepreneurship Programme (TEEP)
TEEP is one of Africa’s most celebrated entrepreneurship programs. Every year, it provides $5,000 in non-refundable seed funding, along with business training and mentorship, to thousands of entrepreneurs across the continent.
Who Can Apply:
- Entrepreneurs with registered African businesses
- Start-ups less than 3 years old
- Open to all sectors
What You Get:
- $5,000 grant
- 12-week business training program
- Access to a global network of mentors
How to Apply:
Visit the Tony Elumelu Foundation website and apply when the portal opens.
2. Mastercard Foundation Agribusiness Fund
This grant supports small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in agriculture, agritech, and climate-smart farming. It targets businesses that integrate innovation and sustainability into their operations.
Who Can Apply:
- Registered agribusinesses in Sub-Saharan Africa
- Companies focused on sustainability or digital innovation
What You Get:
- Grants between $500,000 and $2,500,000
- Capacity-building support
- Access to agribusiness networks
How to Apply:
Stay updated via the Mastercard Foundation website.
3. Bank of Industry Youth Entrepreneurship Support (YES) Programme
The YES programme by Nigeria’s Bank of Industry empowers young entrepreneurs with funding, training, and mentorship. While it’s known for its low-interest loans, it also provides grant components for top-performing applicants.
Who Can Apply:
- Nigerians aged 18–35
- Businesses in agriculture, tech, manufacturing, and more
- Must be CAC-registered
What You Get:
- Grant opportunities for select businesses
- Business management training
- Access to loans for scale-up
How To Apply:
Visit the BOI YES Program page to begin your application.
4. MTN Yellopreneur Grant
Focused on female entrepreneurs, the MTN Yellopreneur initiative offers funding and support to women running innovative businesses in Nigeria.
Who Can Apply:
- Women entrepreneurs with registered businesses
- Must show clear growth potential and innovation
What You Get:
- Non-refundable grant support
- Networking within MTN’s business ecosystem
- Specialized business training
How to Apply:
Keep an eye on MTN Foundation’s official website for application announcements.
5. Google for Startups Black Founders Fund
This initiative supports Black-owned tech and innovation-driven start-ups. Nigerian founders are eligible for equity-free funding, mentorship, and resources from Google’s vast network.
Who Can Apply:
- Black-founded, registered start-ups in Africa
- Companies with high growth potential
- Businesses in any sector
What You Get:
- Non-dilutive (equity-free) funding
- Mentorship from Google experts
- Product and growth support tools
How to Apply:
Visit the Google for Startups Founders Fund page to apply.
Why Business Registration Matters
To be eligible for most grants, your business must be officially registered with Nigeria’s Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). Here’s why that matters:
- Credibility: Funders trust verified businesses.
- Tax Compliance: Grants often require a Tax Identification Number (TIN).
- Access to More Opportunities: Registered businesses can apply for grants, loans, and tenders.
Need to register your business? Genius Hub offers fast and affordable CAC registration services.
Tips to Boost Your Grant Application Success
- Understand the Grant’s Focus: Align your application with the funder’s goals.
- Show Impact: Prove how the grant will help you create jobs or scale innovation.
- Prepare Documentation: Have your CAC certificate, business plan, and projections ready.
- Stay Informed: Follow funding platforms and subscribe to newsletters.
Conclusion
These small business grants in Nigeria offer powerful opportunities to grow, innovate, and thrive in 2025. Whether you’re an agropreneur, tech founder, or a woman-led enterprise, there’s a grant for you.
Need help applying or preparing your documents? Contact Genius Hub to guide you every step of the way.
