Opportunities worth your time

How to Apply for the ₦250 Million NYSC-to-Tech

How to Apply for the ₦250 Million NYSC-to-Tech Scholarship Fund (And How to Choose the Right Tech Track)

If you are a serving corps member, prospective corps member, or recent NYSC alumnus looking to transition into a high-paying tech career, the ₦250 Million NYSC-to-Tech Job Scholarship Fund, initiated by Tunde Onakoya, HackSultan, and Sam Otigba, is a golden opportunity. ​The fund awards ₦160,000 per beneficiary (₦10,000 application fee waiver + ₦150,000 tuition subsidy) toward a 9-to-12-month accredited AltSchool Africa diploma, alongside job-matching via Jobs59 and free laptops for selected learners. ​Before filling out your form, read through this complete guide to pick the best tech track for your skillset, followed by the step-by-step application process. ​How to Choose the Right Tech Track for You ​One of the main reasons learners drop out of tech programs is picking a track that doesn’t fit their natural strengths or background. Here is a breakdown of the available schools and who they are best suited for: ​1. School of Engineering ​ Tracks: AI-Powered Fullstack Engineering, Cybersecurity, Cloud Engineering ​ Best For: Problem-solvers, logical thinkers, and people who enjoy building things from scratch or protecting systems. ​ Good Backgrounds: Computer Science, Mathematics,

Eligibility: Eligibility and NYSC Details Step 1 Before starting the online form, ensure you belong to one of the eligible categories: Current Corps Members: Have your NYSC State Code and Call-Up details ready

Timeline

Timeline not announced

Location

Africa

Funding or benefit

awards ₦160,000 per beneficiary (₦10,000 application fee waiver + ₦150,000 tuition subsidy) toward a 9-to-12-month accredited AltSchool Africa diploma, alongside job-matching via Job

GrowthGia Agro Business

Call for Applications: GrowthGia Agro Business Grant 2026 for Nigerian Farmers( Up To ₦ 5Million Grant)

Applications are now open for the GrowthGia Agro Business Grant 2026 , a funding initiative designed to support operational farmers in Nigeria who are building sustainable and growth-oriented agricultural businesses. This edition of the grant is exclusively focused on the agricultural sector, providing financial support to farmers committed to expanding their operations, improving productivity, and contributing to Nigeria’s food security and economic development. Through this initiative, GrowthGia aims to strengthen the country’s agricultural ecosystem by empowering entrepreneurs with the resources needed to scale their farming businesses. Eligibility Criteria Applicants must: Be operational farmers based in Nigeria Own an existing and active farming business Have an active LinkedIn profile Application Requirements Applicants are required to submit a proposal outlining: How the ₦1,000,000 grant will be utilized A detailed breakdown of the proposed use of funds The expected impact of the grant on their farming business and future growth Why Apply? The GrowthGia Agro Business Grant provides an opportunity for Nigerian farmers to access funding that can help expand production, improve

Eligibility: Eligibility Criteria Applicants must: Be operational farmers based in Nigeria Own an existing and active farming business Have an active LinkedIn profile Application Requirements Applicants are required to submit a proposal outlining: How the ₦1,000,0

Timeline

Timeline not announced

Location

Africa

Funding or benefit

Grant 2026 , a funding initiative designed to support operational farmers in Nigeria who a

NourishNext West Africa Youth Agrifood Innovation

Call for Applications: NourishNext West Africa Youth Agrifood Innovation Challenge 2026(Up to $ 5,000 Seed Funding)

Applications are now open for the NourishNext West Africa Youth Agrifood Innovation Challenge 2026, a regional initiative supporting youth-led innovations that strengthen nutritious fruit and vegetable value chains across West Africa. The Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN) leads the challenge for Improved Nutrition in partnership with the Scaling Up Nutrition (SUN) Movement and national implementing partners across Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Nigeria, and Senegal. The initiative is supported by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The programme seeks innovative solutions that improve the processing, preservation, packaging, transportation, marketing, distribution, and consumption of fruits and vegetables while promoting resilient, inclusive, and nutrition-sensitive food systems. Competition Categories Applicants can submit innovations in one of the following areas: Advertisement Value addition and processing innovations for fruit and vegetable value chains Integration of locally produced fruits and vegetables into public nutrition and social protection systems Market and supply chain solutions that i

Eligibility: Eligibility Criteria Applicants must: Be between 18 and 35 years old (women-led enterprises are eligible up to 40 years) Lead a youth-led enterprise or innovation operating in Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Nigeria, or Senegal Have an innovation that addresses

Timeline

Timeline not announced

Location

Africa

Funding or benefit

up to 40 years) Lead a youth-led enterprise or innovation operating in Benin, Côte d’Ivo

FG EMERGE

Call For Applications: FG EMERGE Grant for Early-Stage Mineral Exploration and Research in Nigeria

The Federal Government of Nigeria has opened applications for the Early-Stage Mineral Exploration & Research Grant Endowment (EMERGE), a funding initiative designed to accelerate mineral exploration, critical minerals development, and applied geoscience research across the country. Implemented through the Solid Minerals Development Fund (SMDF), EMERGE aims to bridge the gap between early-stage exploration and investment-ready mining projects while strengthening Nigeria’s mineral value chains in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda. Funding Streams The programme offers three funding categories: 1. Exploration Grants Supports grassroots and early-stage mineral exploration activities, including: Geological mapping Geochemical surveys Geophysical surveys Drilling Assaying Eligible Applicants: Licensed junior and early-stage exploration companies. 2. Critical Minerals Grants Supports exploration and innovative processing technologies for Nigeria’s critical minerals, including: Advertisement Lithium Tin Tantalum Nickel Cobalt Rare earth elements Other minerals designated as critical by the Honourable Minister for Solid Minerals Development Eligible Applicants: Companies focused on critical

Eligibility: Eligible Applicants: Licensed junior and early-stage exploration companies

Timeline

Timeline not announced

Location

Africa

Funding or benefit

Funding Streams The programme offers three funding categories: 1

International Youth Math

Call for Applications: International Youth Math Challenge (IYMC) 2026 ( Up to $ 1,500 in Prize)

Applications are now open for the International Youth Math Challenge (IYMC) 2026, a global mathematics competition that allows high school and university students to solve challenging mathematical problems, compete internationally, and win cash prizes, certificates, and global recognition. Since its launch in 2018, the IYMC has attracted thousands of participants from around the world, creating a vibrant international network of young mathematicians and problem-solvers. Eligibility Applicants must: Be a high school or university student from any country. Belong to one of the following categories: Junior: Grade 10 or below (Under 16) Youth: Grades 11–13 (16–18/19 years) Senior: University students (19 years and above) Have access to the internet to submit solutions online. Be willing to solve mathematical problems creatively and independently. Awards Participants stand to receive: Cash prizes worth over USD 1,500 Official digital certificates for all participants Gold, Silver, and Bronze Honours for outstanding finalists National honorary certificates for top performers in each participating country Special awards for exceptional teachers, schools, and ambassadors Access to an inter

Eligibility: Eligibility Applicants must: Be a high school or university student from any country

Timeline

September 27, 2026

Location

Africa

Funding or benefit

Awards Participants stand to receive: Cash prizes worth over USD 1,500 Official digital certificates for all participants Gold, Silver, and Bronze Hon

Lagos State Begins

Lagos State Begins Accelerator Training to Expand SME Access to Single-Digit Loans

The Lagos State Government has commenced a three-day accelerator training programme to prepare organisations that will support small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in accessing affordable financing under the Lagos State Access to Finance for SMEs through Cooperatives (LASMECO) programme. The training, organised by the Ministry of Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment in collaboration with the Bank of Industry (BoI) and Sterling Bank Plc., is aimed at equipping selected accelerator organisations with the knowledge and practical skills required to recruit, screen, prepare and support SMEs seeking access to single-digit loans. Speaking at the opening of the workshop, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Babatunde Onigbanjo, said the programme has moved from planning to implementation following the release of the Lagos State Government’s counterpart funding. Represented by the Director of Administration and Human Resources, Adeniyi Oladipupo, Onigbanjo said participants would be trained on the programme’s objectives, loan application process, beneficiary recruitment, monitoring and reporting, as well as the cooperative model that underpins LASMECO. He described the workshop a

Eligibility: eligible SMEs for financing

Timeline

Timeline not announced

Location

Africa

Funding or benefit

up to ₦10 million at a fixed annual interest rate of nine per cent through registered coo

African Plant Nutrition Outreach

Call for Applications: African Plant Nutrition Outreach Fellowship Program 2026 (Up To $ 5,000 Grant)

Applications are now open for the 2026 African Plant Nutrition Outreach Fellowship Program, offering USD 5,000grants to support African scientists, extension specialists, and educators working to improve plant nutrient management and soil fertility across the continent. The fellowship supports innovative education, training, and communication initiatives that promote the efficient use of plant nutrients and accelerate the adoption of sustainable soil fertility management practices in African agricultural systems. Fellowship Focus Areas Applicants are encouraged to propose projects aligned with one or more of the following priority areas: 4R Nutrient Stewardship Nutrient and Water Management for Climate-Resilient Agriculture Soil Health, Nutrient Management and Diagnostics Precision Farming Farmer-led On-farm Innovation Projects that demonstrate strong collaboration and partnerships will receive favourable consideration. Eligibility Criteria Applicants must: Advertisement Be full-time scientists, extension specialists, or educators. Be employed by an African National Agricultural Research and Extension System (NARES), university, non-profit organisation, or private sector institutio

Eligibility: Eligibility Criteria Applicants must: Advertisement Be full-time scientists, extension specialists, or educators

Timeline

Timeline not announced

Location

Africa

Funding or benefit

Funding Successful applicants will receive an award of USD 5,000 to support activities such as: Training programmes and workshops Development of

DIV

Call For Applications: DIV Fund 2026 for Startups, Nonprofits, Researchers and Social Enterprises (Up to $1.5 Million in Grants)

Applications are open for the Development Innovation Ventures (DIV) Fund 2026 , an evidence-driven funding opportunity supporting innovative solutions with the potential to improve millions of lives in low- and middle-income countries. The DIV Fund provides grant funding of up to US$1.5 million to eligible organisations developing and scaling cost-effective innovations that address major development challenges. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. What the DIV Fund Offers The funding is structured across three stages: Stage 1 – Pilot: Up to US$200,000 for testing post-prototype innovations in real-world settings. Stage 2 – Test and Position for Scale: Up to US$500,000 , with exceptionally strong cases potentially considered for up to US$750,000 , to evaluate impact, market viability, and readiness for growth. Stage 3 – Scale: Up to US$1.5 million for proven innovations ready to expand significantly. The DIV Fund can provide grants for projects lasting up to five years, depending on the proposed activities and objectives. Funding is tied to agreed milestones rather than provided as general operating support. Why This Opportunity Stands Out The DIV Fund is not simply looking

Eligibility: eligible organisations developing and scaling cost-effective innovations that address major development challenges

Timeline

Timeline not announced

Location

Africa

Funding or benefit

grant funding of up to US$1.5 million to eligible organisations developing and scaling cost-effective innovat

InvestoVilla Pipeline Development

Call For Applications: InvestoVilla Pipeline Development Program for Entrepreneurs (IPDPE) 2026 Pilot Cohort for African Founders

Applications are now open for the 2026 Pilot Cohort of the InvestoVilla Pipeline Development Program for Entrepreneurs (IPDPE) , a practical investment-readiness and fundraising support program designed to help founders building ventures for African markets become more attractive to investors and better prepared to raise capital. Unlike many startup programs that focus primarily on entrepreneurship training or pitch competitions, IPDPE is designed for entrepreneurs preparing to raise investment or build ventures capable of successfully navigating investor due diligence and competing for funding opportunities. Developed by InvestoVilla , a founder-investor platform being built by AM-Steve House, the program equips founders with the practical knowledge, tools, and support needed to strengthen their fundraising readiness and investor engagement. About the Program Access to capital remains one of the biggest challenges facing African entrepreneurs. As investors become increasingly selective and due diligence standards continue to rise, founders are expected to demonstrate stronger business fundamentals long before securing funding. Advertisement Rather than promising investment, IPDPE

Timeline

Timeline not announced

Location

Africa

Funding or benefit

Funding varies

GEF Small Grants

Call For Applications: GEF Small Grants Programme 2026 for African Organisations (Up to $100,000 Grant)

Applications are open for opportunities under the Global Environment Facility Small Grants Programme (GEF SGP) , implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) , to support community-led environmental and sustainable development initiatives across Africa. The programme provides funding and technical support to eligible civil society and community-based organisations working to address major environmental challenges while improving local livelihoods. The GEF SGP supports initiatives focused on biodiversity, climate change, land degradation, international waters, and chemicals and waste management. Grant Benefits Eligible organisations can access: Grants of up to US$100,000 for selected strategic projects and opportunities Funding for community-led environmental initiatives Technical assistance and capacity-building support Opportunities to develop and scale innovative environmental solutions Support for initiatives that improve livelihoods while generating global environmental benefits. Important: The maximum grant amount and eligibility requirements vary depending on the specific country call and type of GEF SGP opportunity. The US$100,000 opportunity referenced her

Eligibility: eligible civil society and community-based organisations working to address major environmental challenges while improving local livelihoods

Timeline

Timeline not announced

Location

Africa

Funding or benefit

Grant Benefits Eligible organisations can access: Grants of up to US$100,000 for selected strategic projects and opportunities Funding for community-led env

MTN Foundation/MUSON Music Scholars

Call for Applications: MTN Foundation/MUSON Music Scholars Programme 2026 (Fully Funded)

Applications are now open for the 21st Cohort of the MTN Foundation (MTNF) and Musical Society of Nigeria (MUSON) Music Scholars Programme, offering talented young Nigerians the opportunity to earn a fully funded, internationally recognised Diploma in Music at the prestigious MUSON School of Music in Lagos. Since its launch in 2006, the programme has empowered aspiring musicians through a partnership between the MTN Foundation and the Musical Society of Nigeria (MUSON), providing world-class music education and professional training at no cost to selected scholars. Eligibility Criteria Applicants must: Be Nigerian citizens aged 18–35 years . Possess a General Certificate of Education (GCE) Ordinary Level or Senior Secondary School Certificate (SSCE) with credits in five (5) subjects , including English Language , obtained in not more than two sittings. Hold a Grade 5 or higher certificate in Music Theory and Practical from the MUSON School of Music or another recognised examination body such as ABRSM or Trinity College London . Entrance Examination and Audition Applicants will undergo the following selection process: Written Examination (Music Theory and General Knowledge) Advertis

Eligibility: Eligibility Criteria Applicants must: Be Nigerian citizens aged 18–35 years

Timeline

Timeline not announced

Location

Africa

Funding or benefit

Funding varies

GET Compass SMEBusinessGrant 2026

Call for Applications: GET Compass SMEBusinessGrant 2026 (Up to ₦2 Million in Funding)

Applications are now open for the GET Compass SME Grant 2026, an initiative by the Grooming Endowment Trust (GET) designed to support early-stage small and medium-sized businesses in Nigeria with grant funding of up to ₦2 million. Beyond financial support, the programme equips entrepreneurs with business development training, mentorship, and practical knowledge to help them scale sustainably and improve their operations. Eligibility Criteria Applicants must: Be 18 years or older Be Nigerian citizens Own a business that is not more than three years old Have a registered business (including CAC registration or other recognised business registration) Show evidence that the business is operational Be available to attend the mandatory two-week workshop in Lagos Grant Benefits Successful applicants will receive: Up to ₦2 million in SME grant funding A two-week business development workshop in Lagos Business advisory and mentorship Capacity-building sessions to strengthen business operations Support to improve business growth, expansion, and sustainability Why Apply? The GET Compass Grant is designed to help promising SMEs access the funding and business support needed to grow, improve pr

Eligibility: Eligibility Criteria Applicants must: Be 18 years or older Be Nigerian citizens Own a business that is not more than three years old Have a registered business (including CAC registration or other recognised business registration) Show evidence that t

Timeline

Timeline not announced

Location

Africa

Funding or benefit

Grant 2026, an initiative by the Grooming Endowment Trust (GET) designed to support early-s