7 Business Grants and Programs to Apply for Before July Ends

Nigerian entrepreneurs now have a final opportunity to secure funding, training and market connections. 

If you run a startup, an SME, or are simply exploring ways to accelerate growth, these seven initiatives provide cash grants, expert coaching, and pan-African networks. 

Here are the 7 business grants and programs to apply:

RevUp Women Enterprise Development Programme 2025

Early‑stage, women‑led startups and SMEs in the Agribusiness or E‑commerce sectors can receive ₦24,000 (about $24,000) in non‑equity funding, plus tailored capacity‑building workshops and access to AfriLabs’ continent‑wide innovation ecosystem. To apply, navigate to the AfriLabs RevUp Nigeria page and register or log in. 

You will be asked to describe your business model and team composition, then upload a one‑page pitch deck alongside your CAC certificate. Ensure you submit the completed form before 11:59 PM WAT on August 8, 2025.

UpSkill Universe – HP & Google Skills for Business Programme 2025

SMEs across Africa seeking to sharpen their digital capabilities can enrol in over 30 business modules from HP LIFE and join follow‑up sessions run by Google’s Hustle Academy alumni. 

After visiting the UpSkill Universe portal, register with your business email and select your preferred language from eight options. Choose the “Skills for Business” track, provide a brief profile of your company, and complete the short orientation survey to confirm your place before the July 30, 2025, deadline.

Sterling Bank Non‑Oil Export Academy 2025

Exporters focused on non‑oil products can benefit from hands‑on training in export procedures, documentation and market entry strategies, as well as one‑on‑one advice from trade specialists and introductions to logistics partners. Registration runs on a rolling basis, but early sign‑up is advised. 

To secure your slot, visit Sterling Bank’s Export Academy page, complete the company profile section, choose your preferred training date and venue, then upload your CAC registration and a brief export plan. You will receive venue and schedule details via email once approved.

DBN 7th Entrepreneurship Training Programme 2025

This flagship programme of the Development Bank of Nigeria offers multi-day workshops, both online and in-person, designed to strengthen business strategy, financial management, and operations. 

To register, go to the DBN website, locate the Entrepreneurship Training Programme section, and fill out the application form with your business turnover, staff size and a 500‑word company overview. 

Upon review, you’ll receive an invitation to an orientation session and access to the DBN Learning Management System.

BAT Farmers for the Future (F4F) Programme 2025

Young agricultural entrepreneurs with operational farms are invited to apply for equity‑free grants of up to ₦10 million, alongside agritech mentorship and assistance in areas like soil testing and packaging. 

Begin by visiting the BAT Nigeria F4F grant page, then complete the personal and farm profile sections. 

You will need to submit a concise business plan (no more than three pages) and proof of land access or lease. After submitting your application, you can track your status through the online portal.

Africa Agri‑Food Development Programme (AADP) Grant

SMEs working on sustainable food‑system solutions across Africa can secure grants of up to €100,000, plus introductions to Irish and pan‑African investors and technical support for product development. 

To apply, visit the AADP Ireland website, download the grant guidelines, and complete the online application form in English. Attach financial projections and a sustainability plan, and submit your proposal by 11:59 PM CET on August 15, 2025.

SMEDAN ₦50K Conditional Grant Scheme 2025

Registered micro‑enterprises with five employees or fewer can receive up to ₦50,000 in equity‑free capital, complemented by practical business coaching and inclusion in SMEDAN’s database of entrepreneurs. 

Access the SMEDAN Conditional Grant Scheme portal, register with your BVN and CAC details, then complete the micro‑enterprise profile form. Explain how the funds will boost your daily operations and submit your application.  Funds are limited, so early submission is recommended.