FG launches NiYA Startup Pitch 2.0: How to Apply for the ₦100m Innovation Grant
FG unveils NiYA Startup Pitch 2.0 with ₦100m grant for young innovators.
In a major push to strengthen Nigeria’s digital economy and empower a new generation of young innovators, the Federal Government has officially launched the NiYA Startup Pitch 2.0, a nationwide competition offering up to ₦100 million in grant funding. The initiative targets early-stage tech founders with scalable solutions capable of addressing national challenges while contributing to job creation and digital transformation.
The launch of this year’s edition signals government commitment to deepening youth participation in technology-driven entrepreneurship, an area considered central to Nigeria’s long-term economic growth.
NiYA Startup Pitch 2.0: Government’s Big Bet on Youth-led Innovation
The programme forms part of the wider Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA) project designed to groom “future-ready entrepreneurs.” Through this platform, the government aims to provide structure, visibility, resources, and real-world support for young founders building technology-based solutions.
Participants will receive mentorship from industry experts, pitch preparation guidance, enterprise development support, and media exposure. The programme also opens doors to funding opportunities that can help startups progress from idea stage to fully scalable ventures.
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Eligibility: Who Can Apply for the ₦100m Grant?
To ensure the competition captures serious early-stage innovators, the Federal Government outlined clear eligibility requirements. Applicants must:
- Be between 18 and 35 years old
- Be resident in Nigeria
- Operate a startup with at least two co-founders
- Possess a NiYA completion certificate
- Create and complete a NiYA community profile
- Submit a professional pitch deck
These requirements are designed to validate commitment, encourage collaboration, and ensure participants truly benefit from NiYA’s training ecosystem.
Key Benefits: What Selected Startups Stand to Gain
The NiYA Startup Pitch comes with one of the largest non-equity grant packages in the country. Beneficiaries will receive:
- Up to ₦100 million in funding
- Mentorship from experienced founders and industry professionals
- Enterprise development support to strengthen operational structure
- National visibility across media and government platforms
- Opportunities to pitch before investors and partners
- Access to the broader NiYA innovation network
Beyond funding, the exposure and expert mentorship available to finalists can significantly accelerate the growth trajectory of early-stage startups.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step
Interested applicants can apply by following the link provided via the NiYA portal. Candidates must complete the NiYA community profile, upload the required documents, including a pitch deck, and finalize their submission through the official application page.
Deadline: Not specified.
Why the NiYA Startup Pitch Matters for Nigeria’s Digital Economy
Nigeria’s youth population remains one of its strongest assets. With an increasing number of young people pivoting into tech entrepreneurship, initiatives like NiYA 2.0 help close the gap between potential and opportunity. The programme supports national goals surrounding digital transformation, innovation, and job creation, positioning Nigerian youths as contributors to globally competitive solutions.
FAQ
1. What is the NiYA Startup Pitch 2.0?
NiYA Startup Pitch 2.0 is a Federal Government innovation competition offering young Nigerian tech founders an opportunity to access up to ₦100 million in grant funding, mentorship, and enterprise development support.
2. Who is eligible for the NiYA Startup Pitch 2025?
Applicants must be between 18–35 years old, live in Nigeria, have at least two co-founders, possess a NiYA course completion certificate, complete their NiYA community profile, and submit a pitch deck.
3. How much funding can participants receive?
Successful startups can receive up to ₦100 million in non-equity funding, making it one of the most substantial youth-focused grants in Nigeria.
4. Is the NiYA Startup Pitch free to join?
Yes. Applying is free, and participants only need to meet the outlined eligibility criteria and complete their NiYA profiles and training requirements.
5. How do I apply for the NiYA Startup Pitch?
Candidates must apply through the official NiYA application portal by clicking the provided link, completing the profile, and uploading required documents such as the pitch deck.
6. When is the deadline for the NiYA Startup Pitch application?
The Federal Government has stated that the deadline is not yet specified, meaning applicants should apply as early as possible.
7. What are the benefits of joining NiYA Startup Pitch?
Participants gain access to funding, mentorship, enterprise development, national visibility, networking opportunities, and access to the broader NiYA innovation community.
8. Does NiYA require co-founders to apply?
Yes. Startups must have at least two co-founders, encouraging collaboration and teamwork, key pillars for scalable ventures.
9. What kind of startup can apply for NiYA pitch?
Although open to all innovation-driven solutions, the programme specifically targets youth-led tech startups that can solve national challenges or contribute to Nigeria’s digital economy.
10. Is NiYA StartUp Pitch a government-backed programme?
Yes. NiYA Startup Pitch 2.0 is fully backed by the Federal Government of Nigeria under the Nigerian Youth Academy initiative.
