In a country where youth unemployment remains a pressing issue, various organizations and government bodies have introduced youth empowerment grants to support aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners. These grants are non-repayable funds aimed at empowering Nigerian youths with financial support, training, and business mentorship. In this post, we’ll highlight the top 5 youth empowerment grants in Nigeria for 2025, how to apply, and who qualifies.
Contents
- 1 1. Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) Entrepreneurship Programme
- 2 2. Youth Economic Intervention and De-Radicalization Programme (YEIDEP)
- 3 3. LSETF (Lagos State Employment Trust Fund)
- 4 4. National Youth Investment Fund (NYIF)
- 5 5. Bank of Industry (BOI) Youth Entrepreneurship Support (YES) Programme
- 6 Final Thoughts
1. Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) Entrepreneurship Programme
Overview
The TEF programme is one of the most popular grant schemes in Africa. It provides $5,000 in seed capital and mentorship to selected entrepreneurs.
Eligibility
- Nigerian citizen between 18–40 years
- Must have a viable business idea or an existing business under 3 years old
Application Period
- Opens annually between January – March on tefconnect.com
Why It Stands Out
- Offers business training, access to a pan-African network, and startup funding
2. Youth Economic Intervention and De-Radicalization Programme (YEIDEP)
Overview
YEIDEP is a Federal Government initiative aimed at supporting youth businesses while discouraging economic marginalization and social extremism. It replaces the former YouWiN programme.
Benefits
- Up to N2 million in grant support
- Entrepreneurship education and mentoring
- Access to youth-focused investment programs
Requirements
- Must be a Nigerian youth aged 18–45
- Must have a clear business idea or registered enterprise
Application
- Applications are made through the designated government portals at: https://yeidep.org
3. LSETF (Lagos State Employment Trust Fund)
Overview
Targeted at Lagos residents, this grant helps fund SMEs and startups with tailored financing and training programs.
Key Features
- Non-collateral loans and grants up to N500,000 – N5 million
- Entrepreneurship training
Eligibility
- Must be a resident of Lagos State
- Aged 18–45 with a business idea or startup
4. National Youth Investment Fund (NYIF)
Overview
Launched by the Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports, NYIF offers funding for youth-led businesses across sectors.
Grant Range
- Up to N3 million per applicant
Eligibility
- Nigerian youth between 18–35
- Must have a business registered with CAC
Application Portal
- Apply via nyif.nmfb.com.ng
5. Bank of Industry (BOI) Youth Entrepreneurship Support (YES) Programme
Overview
The YES programme offers funding and training for youth entrepreneurs through BOI.
Benefits
- Loan/grant combo for youth startups
- Intensive entrepreneurship training
Requirements
- Aged 18–35
- Must present a detailed business plan
- Apply via the BOI official website at: https://boimfb.com/
Final Thoughts
These top 5 grants provide vital support for Nigerian youths who want to launch or expand their businesses in 2025. Whether you’re in tech, fashion, agriculture, or other sectors, you’ll find an opportunity that fits.
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