Best Grants for NGOs, Women, and Startups in Nigeria (2025)

Access to funding has always been one of the biggest challenges for entrepreneurs, women-owned businesses, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Nigeria. In 2025, several grant opportunities are available to help these groups grow their projects, expand businesses, and create social impact without the burden of repayment. Unlike loans, grants are financial aids that do not require payback, making them highly valuable for startups and NGOs.

Below are some of the best grant opportunities available in Nigeria in 2025:

1. Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) Grant

The Tony Elumelu Foundation continues to support African entrepreneurs with seed funding, mentorship, and training. In 2025, beneficiaries can access up to $5,000 in seed capital, alongside entrepreneurship programs to scale their businesses. This is one of the most popular grants for startups across Africa, including Nigeria.

2. African Women Development Fund (AWDF)

This grant is designed specifically for women-led NGOs working in areas such as gender equality, human rights, and women empowerment. In 2025, the AWDF is focusing on funding organizations that address women’s economic security, leadership, and health.

3. Bank of Industry (BOI) Grants and Empowerment Programs

The Bank of Industry continues to offer special support for Nigerian women and youth through its grant-based empowerment initiatives. In 2025, programs such as BOI Women Fund are targeted at supporting women entrepreneurs with both funding and capacity-building.

4. Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF)

For startups based in Lagos, the LSETF provides grants and low-interest loans to entrepreneurs. In 2025, the grant arm of the fund is focused on helping tech-driven startups and innovative businesses to thrive.

5. US African Development Foundation (USADF) Grant

USADF provides grants of up to $250,000 to local organizations and startups in Nigeria that are focused on agriculture, renewable energy, and community impact projects. The 2025 cycle is open to women-led businesses and NGOs that can show measurable social impact.

6. YouWin Connect Nigeria

YouWin continues to be one of the Nigerian government’s flagship programs for startups and young entrepreneurs. In 2025, selected winners receive funding, mentorship, and business development support to grow their ventures.

7. YEIDEP (Youth Entrepreneurship and Innovation Development Program) Grant

Launched recently, YEIDEP continues into 2025, offering grants to youth and women with innovative business ideas. The program is designed to reduce unemployment and encourage small businesses in Nigeria.

Why These Grants Matter

Grants play a vital role in helping NGOs, women entrepreneurs, and startups overcome financial barriers. They allow organizations to focus on creating impact without worrying about repayment. With programs like TEF, AWDF, and USADF, opportunities in 2025 are broader than ever for Nigerians willing to apply with strong, innovative ideas.