HOW NIGERIAN STUDENTS CAN APPLY FOR NANS BUSINESS GRANT

Nigerian students seeking financial support to develop their businesses and innovative ideas can apply through the NANSInnovate 2026 programme, which is designed to support student entrepreneurs and encourage enterprise development among young Nigerians.
The initiative is aimed at helping students turn viable business ideas into sustainable ventures while providing opportunities for funding, mentorship and business development.
WHO CAN APPLY?
Interested applicants must be Nigerian students currently enrolled in a recognised tertiary institution.
Applicants are expected to have a viable business or business idea capable of demonstrating potential for growth and impact. Students should also be prepared to provide evidence of their student status and details of their proposed or existing business.
HOW TO APPLY
Eligible students are expected to complete the application form through the designated NANSInnovate application platform when applications are open.
Applicants should provide accurate personal information, details of their institution and course of study, as well as information about their business.
They may also be required to explain their business model, the problem their business solves, their target customers, expected impact and how the grant would be used.
DOCUMENTS TO PREPARE
Applicants should have relevant documents ready, which may include:
Valid student identification card
Evidence of enrolment in a Nigerian tertiary institution
Personal identification details
Business registration documents, where applicable
Business plan or proposal
Details of the business or proposed project
Bank account information where required
Any additional documents requested on the official application portal
Applicants should ensure that all information submitted is accurate and verifiable.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER APPLICATION?
Submitted applications are expected to undergo screening and assessment. Shortlisted applicants may be contacted for further verification, interviews, pitching or other stages of the selection process.
Successful applicants will receive the grant or other forms of support according to the programme’s terms.
Important: Applicants should be careful of individuals requesting money in exchange for guaranteed selection. Only use the official NANSInnovate application channel and verify the current application deadline before submitting any personal information.
There is also a separate Federal Government Student Venture Capital Grant (S-VCG) for student-led businesses. Its official portal confirms that students in Nigerian universities, polytechnics and colleges of education can apply, subject to specific requirements, including being at least 300 level or being part of a team led by a 300-level-or-above student.