The Federal Government of Nigeria has launched the Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA) Startup Pitch 2.0, a national initiative aimed at supporting young tech founders with funding, mentorship and enterprise development support.
The programme offers successful applicants up to ₦100 million in grants to accelerate innovation, create jobs and strengthen locally developed digital solutions that address national challenges.
According to the organisers, NiYA Startup Pitch 2.0 is designed to equip young entrepreneurs with the structure, exposure and resources needed to transform early-stage ideas into scalable, high-impact ventures. The initiative is part of the government’s broader effort to develop a digitally empowered youth population capable of driving Nigeria’s economic transformation.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, applicants must:
Be between 18 and 35 years old
Reside in Nigeria
Run a startup with at least two co-founders
Present a completed NiYA course certificate
Complete their NiYA community profile
Submit a pitch deck
Benefits
Participants will have access to:
₦100 million in funding
Mentorship from experienced founders and industry leaders
Business development and enterprise support
National visibility across media and government channels
Investor and partnership opportunities
Integration into the wider NiYA innovation community
How to Apply
Interested and qualified applicants can submit their applications through the official portal:
➡️ niya.gov.ng/niyastartup
This initiative is powered by the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, the FIRS and is being delivered by Sapphital Ltd.
The application deadline has not yet been specified.
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