AGRA–SMEDANYouth Agri-InnovationContest 2026

The AGRA–SMEDA Youth Agri-Innovation Contest 2026 supports Nigerian youth aged 18–35 building agribusinesses in maize, rice, soybean, and allied value chains. It combines a contest with training to connect promising ideas with financiers. Ten winners receive seed capital and mentorship, while 30 finalists pitch live at a Grand Finale. All applicants get access-to-finance training, and women, rural youth, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.⁠‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌​​​‌‌​​‌‌​‌​​​‌‌​‌​‌​‌​‌⁠

What it offers

• Certified access-to-finance training (English and Hausa) across eight modules.
• Pitch rounds judged by expert reviewers, culminating in a live Grand Finale with financiers.
• Seed capital and support for 10 winners over six months of mentorship and aftercare.
• A national showcase and award ceremony in Lagos, featuring an Innovation Showcase for outstanding ideas.
• Virtual and in-person training sessions in selected Nigerian states.

Who can apply

• Nigerian youth aged 18–35 running or building an agribusiness.
• Focus areas: maize, rice, soybean, or allied agrifood value chains.
• No registration requirement (but applicants must confirm CAC registration status if applicable).
• Open to applicants from every state in Nigeria.

How to apply

1. Apply online in three stages (8–16 October 2026), saving progress at any time.
2. Complete virtual training (17 October).
3. Attend in-person training in Niger, Nasarawa, or Kaduna (21–22 October).
4. Pitch at the hybrid Grand Finale (29 October) and participate in the national showcase (8–10 November).

Good to know

• Application deadline: 16 October 2026.
• No application fee—applications are free.
• Feedback is provided to all applicants.
• Mentors and judges are sought for the programme (see Call for Experts).
• Save progress is available during the online submission.

For questions, contact: plusincubationhub@gmail.com