Top Business Grant Providers in Nigeria for Entrepreneurs in 2025

Starting or growing a business in Nigeria can be challenging due to limited access to funding. Fortunately, several organizations and institutions offer business grants in Nigeria to support entrepreneurs, startups, and small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Unlike loans, these grants do not require repayment, making them an attractive option for business owners. This guide highlights the top grant providers in Nigeria, their eligibility criteria, and how to apply for funding in 2025 to help you scale your business.

Why Seek Business Grants in Nigeria?

Business grants provide non-repayable funds to support startups, SMEs, and innovative entrepreneurs. These grants empower businesses to:

• Fund innovative projects and business expansion.
• Create jobs and contribute to Nigeria’s economic growth.
• Support underrepresented groups, such as women and youth entrepreneurs.
• Drive innovation in sectors like agriculture, technology, and creative industries.

By leveraging these opportunities, Nigerian entrepreneurs can overcome financial barriers and achieve sustainable growth. Below is a comprehensive list of business grant providers in Nigeria for 2025.

Top Business Grant Providers in Nigeria

1. Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) Entrepreneurship Programme

The Tony Elumelu Foundation is one of the most prominent grant providers in Africa, offering $5,000 non-repayable seed capital to young entrepreneurs across Nigeria and other African countries. The TEF Entrepreneurship Programme focuses on empowering startups with innovative ideas that address societal challenges.

• Eligibility: Open to Nigerian entrepreneurs aged 18+ with scalable business ideas in any sector (e.g., agriculture, tech, fashion, healthcare).
• Grant Amount: $5,000 (non-repayable seed funding).
• Additional Benefits: Access to mentorship, business training, and a network of African entrepreneurs.
• Application Process: Apply online via the TEFConnect platform (tefconnect.com). Applications typically open annually between January and March.
• Why Apply?: TEF has empowered thousands of Nigerian entrepreneurs, making it a trusted source for startup funding.

Keyword Tip: Search for “TEF grants for Nigerian startups” to stay updated on application deadlines.

2. Bank of Industry (BOI) SME Grants

The Bank of Industry (BOI) supports Nigerian SMEs through grants, low-interest loans, and capacity-building programs. While BOI is known for its loan programs, it occasionally offers grants in collaboration with partners to support specific sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, and technology.

• Eligibility: SMEs registered in Nigeria with a viable business plan. Priority is given to businesses in priority sectors like agribusiness and renewable energy.
• Grant Amount: Varies depending on the program (e.g., up to ₦10 million for specific initiatives).
• Additional Benefits: Access to BOI’s training programs and market linkages.
• Application Process: Visit the BOI website (boi.ng) or their offices in Lagos, Abuja, or other states for application details.
• Why Apply?: BOI’s grants are tailored to support Nigeria’s industrial and economic growth, making it ideal for manufacturing and export-focused businesses.

Keyword Tip: Use “BOI SME grants Nigeria 2025” to find the latest grant opportunities.

3. YouWin Connect Nigeria

YouWin Connect, a Federal Government initiative, provides grants to young Nigerian entrepreneurs to foster job creation and innovation. The program targets youth-led startups with high-growth potential.

• Eligibility: Nigerian citizens aged 18–40 with innovative business ideas. Businesses must be registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).
• Grant Amount: Up to ₦10 million, depending on the business proposal.
• Additional Benefits: Free entrepreneurship training and mentorship.
• Application Process: Applications are submitted online via the YouWin website (youwinconnect.org.ng) during open calls.
• Why Apply?: YouWin Connect focuses on youth empowerment, making it ideal for young entrepreneurs seeking funding without repayment obligations.

Keyword Tip: Search “YouWin Connect grants for Nigerian youth” for updates on application cycles.

4. GroFin Nigeria

GroFin is an international development finance institution that provides grants and advisory services to Nigerian SMEs. It focuses on businesses that create social impact, particularly in underserved communities.

• Eligibility: SMEs with a minimum of one year of operation and a focus on job creation or social impact (e.g., education, healthcare, agribusiness).
• Grant Amount: Varies, typically between $100,000 and $1.5 million in funding (grants and investments combined).
• Additional Benefits: Business support services, including financial management and market access.
• Application Process: Submit a business plan via GroFin’s website (grofin.com).
• Why Apply?: GroFin’s grants are ideal for businesses with a strong social mission and growth potential.

Keyword Tip: Use “GroFin Nigeria SME grants” to explore their funding programs.

5. Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF)

The Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF) offers grants and low-interest loans to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Lagos State. While primarily known for loans, LSETF occasionally provides grants to support innovative startups.

• Eligibility: Businesses registered and operating in Lagos State. Priority is given to youth and women entrepreneurs.
• Grant Amount: Varies, typically up to ₦5 million for select programs.
• Additional Benefits: Free training and networking opportunities.
• Application Process: Apply online via the LSETF website (lsetf.ng) or visit their Lagos office.
• Why Apply?: LSETF is a go-to for Lagos-based entrepreneurs seeking funding to scale their businesses.

Keyword Tip: Search “LSETF grants for Lagos startups” for the latest opportunities.

6. AFD Nigeria SME Grants

The Agence Française de Développement (AFD) partners with Nigerian organizations to provide grants for SMEs, particularly in sustainable development sectors like renewable energy, agriculture, and green technology.

• Eligibility: SMEs with projects promoting environmental sustainability or social impact.
• Grant Amount: Varies, typically between ₦5 million and ₦50 million.
• Additional Benefits: Technical assistance and project implementation support.
• Application Process: Check AFD’s website (afd.fr) or partner organizations like the Nigerian Climate Innovation Center.
• Why Apply?: AFD grants are ideal for businesses focused on sustainability and climate-friendly initiatives.

Keyword Tip: Use “AFD Nigeria SME grants 2025” to find current opportunities.

7. Diamond Bank (Access Bank) SME Grants

Following the merger of Diamond Bank with Access Bank, the Access Bank SME Grants program continues to support Nigerian entrepreneurs, particularly women and youth, through grants and capacity-building initiatives.

• Eligibility: SMEs owned by women or youth with a registered business and a viable business plan.
• Grant Amount: Up to ₦5 million for select programs.
• Additional Benefits: Access to the Womenpreneur Pitch-a-ton and other training programs.
• Application Process: Apply via the Access Bank website (accessbankplc.com) during open calls.
• Why Apply?: Access Bank’s grants are tailored to empower women and youth entrepreneurs in Nigeria.

Keyword Tip: Search “Access Bank SME grants Nigeria” for updates.

8. African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF)

The African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF) provides grants to women-led businesses and organizations in Nigeria and across Africa. AWDF focuses on empowering women entrepreneurs in sectors like agriculture, technology, and creative industries.

• Eligibility: Women-led SMEs or organizations with a focus on economic empowerment or social impact.
• Grant Amount: Up to $50,000, depending on the project.
• Additional Benefits: Networking and capacity-building support.
• Application Process: Submit applications via the AWDF website (awdf.org).
• Why Apply?: AWDF is a leading supporter of women entrepreneurs, making it ideal for female-led startups.

Keyword Tip: Use “AWDF grants for Nigerian women entrepreneurs” to find opportunities.

9. Shell LiveWIRE Nigeria

Shell LiveWIRE Nigeria is a youth entrepreneurship program that provides grants, training, and mentorship to young Nigerians in the Niger Delta and beyond. It focuses on businesses in agriculture, energy, and technology.

• Eligibility: Youth aged 18–35 in the Niger Delta or other specified regions with innovative business ideas.
• Grant Amount: Varies, typically up to ₦5 million.
• Additional Benefits: Business mentorship and market linkages.
• Application Process: Apply via Shell Nigeria’s website (shell.com.ng) during open calls.
• Why Apply?: Shell LiveWIRE supports youth-led businesses in high-impact sectors.

Keyword Tip: Search “Shell LiveWIRE Nigeria grants” for application details.

10. Google for Startups Black Founders Fund

The Google for Startups Black Founders Fund provides non-dilutive grants to Black-led startups in Nigeria and other African countries. The program aims to bridge the funding gap for underrepresented entrepreneurs in the tech sector.

• Eligibility: Black-led tech startups with a registered business and a scalable product.
• Grant Amount: Up to $150,000 in non-equity funding.
• Additional Benefits: Google mentorship, cloud credits, and networking opportunities.
• Application Process: Apply via the Google for Startups website (startup.google.com).
• Why Apply?: This fund is perfect for tech startups seeking to scale without giving up equity.

Keyword Tip: Use “Google Black Founders Fund Nigeria” to stay updated.

Tips for Securing Business Grants in Nigeria

1. Prepare a Solid Business Plan: Most grant providers require a detailed business plan outlining your goals, financial projections, and impact.
2. Meet Eligibility Criteria: Ensure your business aligns with the grant’s focus (e.g., sector, location, or demographic).
3. Apply Early: Grant applications often have strict deadlines. Monitor websites and social media for open calls.
4. Leverage Networks: Join entrepreneurship communities on platforms like X to stay informed about grant opportunities.
5. Seek Professional Help: Engage consultants or mentors to refine your application for better chances of success.

How to Find More Grant Opportunities in Nigeria

• Follow Grant Providers on X: Organizations like TEF (@TEFAfrica), BOI (@BOINigeria), and LSETF (@LSETF) regularly announce grant opportunities on X.
• Visit Government Portals: Check websites like nigeria.gov.ng for federal and state-level grant programs.
• Join Entrepreneurship Hubs: Organizations like CcHUB and Ventures Platform often share grant opportunities with their members.
• Use Search Engines: Search for terms like “business grants in Nigeria 2025,” “SME funding Nigeria,” or “startup grants for Nigerian entrepreneurs” to discover new programs.

Conclusion

Securing business grants in Nigeria can be a game-changer for entrepreneurs looking to start or grow their ventures. From the Tony Elumelu Foundation to Google for Startups, these grant providers offer funding, mentorship, and resources to help you succeed. Stay proactive, prepare a compelling application, and leverage these opportunities to take your business to the next level in 2025.

For the latest updates on business grants for Nigerian entrepreneurs, follow relevant organizations on X or visit their official websites. If you need help with pricing or details about specific programs like SuperGrok or xAI’s API services, check out x.ai/grok or x.ai/api for more information.