FMN Prize for Innovation 2026: Nigerian SMEs & Students to Win Up to ₦5 Million for Cassava Innovation – Apply Now

FMN Prize for Innovation 2026 opens for Nigerian SMEs & students

The Flour Mills of Nigeria (FMN) Prize for Innovation 2026 is officially open, offering Nigerian SMEs and students the opportunity to win up to ₦5 million for groundbreaking ideas in cassava production and processing. With the application deadline set for March 16, 2026, the competition is calling for bold, scalable, and sustainable innovations that can transform Nigeria’s food value chain.

Launched by , one of Africa’s leading food and agro-allied groups, the annual initiative is designed to accelerate innovation in agriculture and promote long-term food security in Nigeria.

Focus of FMN Prize for Innovation 5.0: Transforming Cassava Production in Nigeria

The 2026 edition, FMN PFI 5.0, focuses on Innovative Practices in Cassava Production and Processing, a sector critical to Nigeria’s food security and agro-industrial growth.

Cassava remains one of Nigeria’s most important staple crops. However, productivity gaps, post-harvest losses, inefficient processing systems, and limited value addition continue to hinder its full economic potential. The FMN competition aims to bridge these gaps through:

Improved productivity and yield optimization
Efficient processing technologies
Post-harvest loss reduction
Climate-smart and sustainable practices
Market expansion strategies
Technological integration such as automation, digitization, and biotechnology

By spotlighting cassava innovation, FMN seeks to strengthen Nigeria’s food systems while empowering entrepreneurs and young innovators.

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FMN Prizes for Innovation Competition Categories and Prize Breakdown

The 2026 competition is divided into two major categories, ensuring broad participation across Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem.

1. SME Category: Up to ₦5 Million in Funding

The SME category is open to:

Registered Nigerian Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs)
Businesses operating in the food and agro-allied sector
Enterprises developing innovative cassava production, processing, or value-addition solutions

Prizes:

🥇 First Prize: ₦5,000,000
🥈 Second Prize: ₦3,000,000
🥉 Third Prize: ₦2,000,000

This category is expected to attract agribusiness startups, agro-processors, technology-driven farming enterprises, and value-chain innovators seeking growth capital.

2. Student Category: Supporting Nigeria’s Next Generation of Innovators

The student category is open to:

Nigerian undergraduate and postgraduate students
Enrolled in recognized tertiary institutions
Proposing innovative solutions to challenges in cassava production and processing

Prizes:

🥇 First Prize: ₦300,000
🥈 Second Prize: ₦200,000
🥉 Third Prize: ₦100,000

This segment encourages research-driven solutions, technological prototypes, climate-smart innovations, and scalable business ideas from young scholars.

Why the FMN Prize for Innovation Matters for Nigeria’s Food System

Nigeria is the world’s largest producer of cassava, yet the country continues to face food security challenges and post-harvest inefficiencies. By focusing on innovation in cassava production and processing, FMN is strategically targeting a sector capable of:

Boosting rural employment
Increasing export competitiveness
Reducing food imports
Enhancing agro-industrialization

The FMN Prize for Innovation goes beyond financial rewards. It provides visibility, credibility, and potential partnerships for winners within Nigeria’s rapidly expanding agro-industrial landscape.

Application Deadline and How to Apply

Interested applicants must submit their entries before March 16, 2026. Detailed application guidelines and submission procedures are available on the official competition webpage hosted by Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc.

Prospective applicants are advised to clearly demonstrate measurable impact, scalability, sustainability, and technological relevance in their proposals.

FAQ: FMN Prize for Innovation 2026

What is the FMN Prize for Innovation 2026?

The FMN Prize for Innovation 2026 is a national competition organized by Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc to reward innovative solutions in cassava production and processing.

Who can apply for the FMN Innovation Competition?

Registered Nigerian SMEs in the food and agro-allied sector and Nigerian undergraduate or postgraduate students enrolled in recognized institutions.

What is the prize money for the FMN competition?

SMEs can win up to ₦5 million, while students can win up to ₦300,000 depending on their placement.

What is the focus area for 2026?

The 2026 edition focuses on Innovative Practices in Cassava Production and Processing.

What is the deadline for FMN Prize for Innovation 2026?

The application deadline is March 16, 2026.

How can I apply for the FMN Prize for Innovation?

Applicants must visit the official Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc competition webpage and submit their proposal before the deadline.

Is the FMN Prize for Innovation only for Nigerians?

Yes, both categories are specifically open to Nigerian SMEs and Nigerian students.