AGRA–SMEDANYouth Agri-Innovation Contest 2026
About this opportunity
Contest for Nigerian youth aged 18+ to showcase agri-innovation solutions; applications open for 2026 edition with deadline 16 October.
The AGRA–SMEDA Youth Agri-Innovation Contest 2026 supports Nigerian youth aged 18–35 developing agribusinesses in maize, rice, soybean, and allied value chains. This contest combines training, mentorship, and access to finance to help scale promising agripreneurial ventures. The programme includes financial awards, pitch competitions, and structured training to prepare participants for funding and growth. Rural women, youth, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
What it offers
- Certified access-to-finance training (English and Hausa) across eight modules, delivered virtually and in-person.
- Pitch rounds judged by expert reviewers, culminating in a live Grand Finale with financiers.
- Seed capital and support for 10 winners, plus 30 finalists who pitch live.
- Six months of mentorship and aftercare for winners.
- A national showcase and award ceremony in Lagos, featuring an Innovation Showcase and a Deal Room for networking with investors.
- Every applicant receives personalized feedback on their business idea.
Who can apply
Nigerian youth aged 18–35 who are building or running an agribusiness, particularly in maize, rice, soybean, or allied agrifood value chains. No prior registration is required, though applicants may provide their CAC registration status if applicable. The contest is open to applicants from every state in Nigeria, with special encouragement for rural women, youth, and persons with disabilities.
How to apply
Applications open 8 October 2026 and close 16 October 2026. The process involves three stages:
- Online application submission (savable, with a reference number upon submission).
- Virtual training for all applicants (17 October).
- In-person training in Niger, Nasarawa, and Kaduna (21–22 October).
Good to know
- No application fee is mentioned. Applicants should retain their reference number for follow-ups.
- The programme is fully English- and Hausa-language focused.
- No formal education level is required beyond youth age.
- Winners receive financial support and mentorship; finalists pitch live at the Grand Finale.
Key details
NigeriaWhat you get
- Seed capital and support for 10 winners
- Access-to-finance training (8 modules)
- Live pitch rounds judged by expert reviewers
- Six months of mentorship and aftercare
- Deal Room access with financiers
- National showcase and award ceremony in Lagos
- Personalized feedback for all applicants
- Networking opportunities with investors and mentors
Documents needed
- CAC registration number (if applicable)
- Business idea/plan documentation (if applicable)
How to apply
- Submit an online application (savable, with a reference number upon submission)
- Attend virtual training (17 October)
- Attend in-person training in Niger, Nasarawa, or Kaduna (21–22 October)
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