Top 5 Business Grants Available for Registered Companies in Nigeria in 2025
Table of contents
Introduction
Funding remains a key challenge for Nigerian entrepreneurs, but grants provide a valuable opportunity to scale operations without taking on debt. From empowering youth to supporting female entrepreneurs, these grants are designed to foster innovation and growth.
Here’s a detailed look at the top 5 business grants available for registered companies in Nigeria in 2025.
1. Tony Elumelu Entrepreneurship Programme (TEEP)
Overview:
The Tony Elumelu Entrepreneurship Programme (TEEP) is one of Africa’s most impactful grant initiatives, offering $5,000 in seed funding to African entrepreneurs annually. It also provides access to business training and mentorship opportunities.
Who’s Eligible:
- African entrepreneurs with registered businesses.
- Start-ups less than three years old.
- Open to all industries.
What You’ll Gain:
- $5,000 in non-repayable funding.
- 12 weeks of business management training.
- Networking opportunities with global mentors.
How to Apply:
- Visit the Tony Elumelu Foundation website and complete the application.
2. Mastercard Foundation Agribusiness Fund
Overview:
Focused on agriculture and climate adaptation, this fund supports SMEs working in agriculture and related industries. It also emphasizes sustainable practices and digital innovation in the agribusiness sector.
Who’s Eligible:
- SMEs in agriculture, climate adaptation, or digital innovation.
- Registered businesses in Sub-Saharan Africa, including Nigeria.
What You’ll Gain:
- Grants ranging from $500,000 to $2,500,000.
- Support for scaling operations and sustainable practices.
- Networking opportunities with industry leaders.
How to Apply:
- Follow updates and apply via the Mastercard Foundation website.
3. Bank of Industry Youth Entrepreneurship Support (YES) Programme
Overview:
The YES Programme by the Bank of Industry (BOI) is tailored to empower Nigerian youth with loans, training, and mentorship to start or expand their businesses. While primarily a loan program, it includes grant opportunities for outstanding projects.
Who’s Eligible:
- Nigerian citizens aged 18–35.
- Registered businesses with a viable business plan.
- Focused on industries like technology, agriculture, and manufacturing.
What You’ll Gain:
- Access to grants for selected projects.
- Comprehensive entrepreneurship training.
- Low-interest loans for business expansion.
How to Apply:
- Visit the Bank of Industry website to apply.
4. MTN Yellopreneur Grant
Overview:
This initiative by MTN supports female entrepreneurs in Nigeria by offering funding and training to help them grow their businesses sustainably.
Who’s Eligible:
- Female entrepreneurs running registered businesses in Nigeria.
- A clear focus on innovation and growth.
What You’ll Gain:
- Grant funding for business growth.
- Business training tailored to female entrepreneurs.
- Access to MTN’s extensive business network.
How to Apply:
- Keep an eye on the MTN Yellopreneur page for updates and application windows.
5. Google for Startups Founders Fund
Overview:
Google’s initiative supports Black-founded start-ups in Africa, including Nigeria, with equity-free funding, mentorship, and access to Google’s resources.
Who’s Eligible:
- Black-founded businesses in Africa.
- Start-ups with innovative solutions in any industry.
- Registered companies with strong growth potential.
What You’ll Gain:
- Equity-free funding.
- Access to Google’s mentorship network.
- Use of Google products and services to scale operations.
How to Apply:
- Visit the Google for Startups Founders Fund page to learn more and apply.
Why Registration Matters for Accessing Grants
All the grants listed above require businesses to be registered. Here’s why:
- Legitimacy: Registered businesses are recognized as credible by grant providers.
- Compliance: A CAC-registered business can obtain a Tax Identification Number (TIN), which is often a requirement for grants.
- Opportunities: Registration opens doors to partnerships, loans, and government incentives.
If you’re not yet registered, Idara can help you formalize your business quickly and affordably.
Pro Tips for Securing Grants
- Tailor Applications to Grant Goals: Highlight how your business aligns with the fund’s objectives.
- Show Impact: Demonstrate how the grant will enable your business to create jobs, innovate, or solve real problems.
- Prepare Supporting Documents: Have your CAC certificate, business plan, and financial projections ready.
- Stay Organized: Track deadlines and follow up on applications.
Conclusion
Nigeria offers an abundance of funding opportunities for registered businesses, from seed funding for start-ups to grants for scaling operations. With programs like TEEP, MTN Yellopreneur, and the Mastercard Agribusiness Fund, the possibilities are endless for entrepreneurs ready to grow.
Need help registering your business or applying for grants? Let Idara guide you every step of the way!
