The BATN Foundation has announced the opening of applications for the 2026 edition of the Farmers for the Future (F4F) grant, Cohort 7, aimed at empowering young Nigerians to build sustainable agribusinesses and contribute to the country's food security and economic development goals.
Addressing Food Insecurity and Youth Unemployment
At a critical moment when Nigeria faces rising food insecurity, youth unemployment, and mounting pressure to diversify its economy, the Foundation's intervention positions agriculture as a viable pathway for economic empowerment and long-term growth.
The Farmers for the Future program targets one of the country's most vital demographic groups: National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members. It provides them with equity-free funding, intensive training, mentorship, and market access to scale their agribusiness enterprises.
Program Background and Evolution
Launched in 2019 in partnership with the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneur Department (SAED) of NYSC, the F4F initiative has evolved into a national platform for youth agribusiness development. It leverages the NYSC's nationwide infrastructure to reach corps members across all 36 states, including the Federal Capital Territory.
Participants undergo a structured development journey that begins with business ideation and virtual bootcamps, followed by pitch sessions before industry experts. The top six finalists share in the ₦10 million equity-free grants, with a structured support system that includes a year-long mentorship, technical assistance, and access to social networks.
Tangible Outcomes Over Six Years
Over the last six years, the Farmers for the Future initiative has delivered tangible outcomes across Nigeria's agricultural value chain, including successfully transitioning 40 beneficiaries from small-scale operations to structured agribusinesses.
Speaking on the launch of Cohort 7, General Manager of BATN Foundation Oludare Odusanya said, "Young people have a critical role to play in shaping the future of agriculture in Nigeria. Through the Farmers for the Future grant, we are not just providing funding; we are building a generation of resilient agripreneurs equipped to drive economic growth, create jobs, and strengthen food security."
Alignment with Foundation's Mission
The Farmers for the Future Grant aligns with the BATN Foundation's broader mission of improving livelihoods and driving sustainable development through strategic interventions in agriculture and enterprise development. By investing in young 'Agripreneurs,' the Foundation continues to support the development of a more productive, competitive, and resilient agricultural sector capable of meeting Nigeria's growing food needs.
Applications are now open to eligible NYSC corps members across Nigeria. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply early and take advantage of the opportunity to build sustainable, profitable, and impactful agribusiness ventures.
