Top 6 Loans and Grants Nigerian Youths Can Apply for in 2026

2026 is shaping up as one of the best years for Nigerian entrepreneurs seeking capital, with billions of naira in government-backed loans, private grants, and international accelerator funding now available. From the $617 million iDICE programme to a ₦110 billion boost for the Nigeria Youth Investment Fund, young business owners have more legitimate, accessible funding options than ever before.

But securing these funds requires preparation. Entrepreneurs must present detailed business plans, meet eligibility criteria, and apply through official channels. Below are six of the most promising opportunities for Nigerian youths this year.

Nigeria Youth Investment Fund: Loans up to ₦3 million

The Nigeria Youth Investment Fund (NYIF) remains a flagship Federal Government initiative, managed in partnership with the Bank of Industry. It offers loans from ₦250,000 to ₦3 million at a single-digit interest rate of 5% per annum, alongside business development support. Applicants must be Nigerians aged 18 to 35, with a viable business idea or existing enterprise. You need your National Identification Number (NIN), Bank Verification Number (BVN), and other documents. Applications are accepted through the official NYIF portal.

Bank of Industry YES Programme: Funding of up to ₦10 million

The Youth Entrepreneurship Support (YES) Programme is one of the country's largest government-backed business financing schemes. Eligible entrepreneurs can access loans of up to ₦10 million, combined with entrepreneurship training, mentorship, and flexible repayment options. The programme targets businesses in agriculture, manufacturing, technology, healthcare, education, and the creative industry. Applicants must submit a comprehensive business plan through the Bank of Industry's online platform.

iDICE Programme: Massive support for tech and creative startups

The Federal Government's Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) programme is designed for Nigerians aged 15 to 35. Backed by the African Development Bank, Islamic Development Bank, and the French Development Agency, the initiative is rolling out additional investment funds in 2026 for technology startups and creative businesses, according to a report by MSME Africa. Beyond financing, successful applicants receive access to mentorship, investor networks, and business development support.

Shell LiveWIRE: Funding and mentorship worth up to ₦10 million

Shell's LiveWIRE programme remains one of Nigeria's most respected corporate entrepreneurship initiatives. It supports innovative businesses in agriculture, energy, and technology with funding of up to ₦10 million. Participants also benefit from intensive business training, mentorship, and professional coaching. Applications usually open once or twice annually.

Startup Innovation Challenge 2026: Over ₦100 million in prizes

Technology startups looking for equity-free funding can apply for the Startup Innovation Challenge 2026. Organised by Startup Abuja in collaboration with Transnet Cloud and Amazon Web Services (AWS), the competition offers more than ₦100 million in cash prizes, AWS cloud credits, and expert mentorship. Eligible startups should have a working prototype or Minimum Viable Product (MVP) in FinTech, HealthTech, EduTech, or AgroTech, plus a functional business website.

Global Cleantech Innovation Programme: Grants up to $20,000

Entrepreneurs developing renewable energy and environmentally sustainable solutions can access the Global Cleantech Innovation Programme (GCIP) Nigeria Accelerator Fund. Implemented through the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), the programme offers grants of up to $20,000, payable in naira at the prevailing Central Bank of Nigeria exchange rate. Funds can be used for equipment, product development, manufacturing, prototype testing, digital marketing, and other business expenses. Registered Nigerian startups and MSMEs in clean technology are eligible.

With government agencies, multinational organisations, and private companies committing billions of naira to entrepreneurship development, 2026 presents one of the strongest funding windows Nigerian businesses have seen in recent years. Entrepreneurs should prepare detailed business plans and apply early through official channels to avoid missing out.