The Federal Government of Nigeria has introduced the Student Venture Capital Grant (S-VCG), a new initiative aimed at supporting student-led businesses with up to N50 million in equity-free funding. The programme targets innovators in tertiary institutions across all 36 states and the FCT, ensuring broad national participation.
The scheme focuses on projects in STEMM fields—Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medical Sciences. Its goal is to help students turn innovative ideas into market-ready solutions that can scale into sustainable businesses.
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Eligibility Requirements
The grant is open to students of accredited tertiary institutions in Nigeria, including universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. Both public and private institutions are eligible.
Applicants must be in at least 300 level or its equivalent. Students below 300 level can apply only as part of a team led by a 300-level student or higher. Applicants do not need to have a fully registered company, but the business must have a registered business name with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) before final approval.
All entries must fall under STEMM categories and be beyond the idea stage. Applicants must submit a clear business plan with defined milestones and key performance indicators (KPIs).
Priority Areas Under STEMM
Science
Biotechnology, agricultural innovation, scientific tools, and research-based solutions.
Technology
Artificial intelligence, software development, hardware technology, and digital platforms.
Engineering
Industrial systems, machinery production, and sustainable engineering solutions.
Mathematics
Analytics, modelling systems, data interpretation tools, and mathematical applications.
Medical Sciences
Health technology, medical devices, healthcare platforms, and public health innovations.
How to Apply for the N50 Million S-VCG Grant
Applications are submitted through the official portal: https://svcg.education.gov.ng
1. Submit Your Venture
Applicants are required to upload business details, a pitch video, a funding request, and supporting documents.
2. Review and Feedback
Applications go through several review stages. Projects not selected immediately remain listed in the Innovation Repository for future opportunities and visibility.
3. Validation and Refinement
Shortlisted applicants enter a structured validation programme where they refine their business models and prepare for milestone-based funding.
4. Funding Disbursement
Approved ventures receive funding in tranches as they meet specific milestones. Progress is tracked through the S-VCG online platform during the incubation period.
Early applicants also receive a free one-year Google Gemini Pro and Advanced license to support research, development, and business growth.
How to Create an Account on the Portal
To begin the application process, students must first create an account on the S-VCG portal.
Step 1: Provide Personal Details
Supply your name, email address, mobile number, and NIN. A four-digit OTP will be sent to your email for verification.
Step 2: Complete Your Student Profile
Select your institution type, school, department, and academic level.
Step 3: Upload Your School Document
Upload any valid enrollment document, such as a school ID card, admission letter, or school fees receipt. File formats accepted include PDF, JPG, PNG, and JPEG, with a maximum size of 10 MB.
Once the profile is completed, applicants can access the dashboard and submit their business proposal.
The grant is open to students in both public and private tertiary institutions in Nigeria.
Applicants must be at least in 300 level or its equivalent, or part of a team led by someone who is.
Projects must demonstrate practical potential and must not be simple ideas on paper.
Funding is equity-free, so students retain full ownership of their ventures.
All projects must fall under STEMM categories.
A CAC-registered business name is required before final approval.
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