The Lagos State government has announced the opening of applications for its COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus (CARES) Program, offering qualified entrepreneurs the opportunity to receive up to N5 million in grant funding for their businesses.
The Lagos State CARES Grant is a financial support scheme aimed at helping entrepreneurs, with applications surging as residents demand funding support amid rising economic pressures. The funds are designated for startups, small businesses, and livelihood recovery across the state.
Understanding the Lagos CARES Grant
The Lagos CARES programme is one component of Nigeria’s overarching COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus (CARES) framework, designed to mitigate the impact of the pandemic on the economy and facilitate sustainable recovery efforts. Unlike loans, the grants awarded do not need to be repaid, subject to compliance with the program rules. However, they do not guarantee automatic access to benefits, and recipients are still subject to a screening and verification process before final selection.
Some components of the program are implemented under agencies like the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF), which frequently announces updates, eligibility requirements, and application procedures on its online platforms. According to the agency, basic requirements such as proof of residence, eligibility for business, and valid identity are typically expected of every applicant prior to being considered for any of the state-supported programs.
Eligibility Criteria for Q2 2026
Although requirements vary across categories and intervention areas or funding cycles, the general applicants for Lagos CARES programs usually target residents of Lagos state and small business operators within the state. Eligible applicants will include the poor and vulnerable people, micro and small business owners, women-owned businesses, and young people. Common eligible applicants are typically required to have the following information:
- Valid means of identification
- Bank Verification Number (BVN)
- Proof of residence in Lagos State
- Proof of business registration (where applicable)
- Details of bank account (where applicable)
Beneficiaries typically include market traders, artisans, women-led enterprises, youth-led businesses, and others operating in the informal economy, depending on the category.
Application Procedure
To apply, follow these steps:
- Go to the Lagos CARES program application website: apply.lsetf.ng
- Select 'Lagos CARES'
- Register with an email and phone number to create your profile
- Fill out the online form with your business and grant category information
- Upload documents such as LASRRA ID, tax payment proof, and business registration
- Your application is submitted for processing. Agents may verify the physical location of your business.
- An update will be provided to you on your application status and grant disbursement via email or SMS.
The program focuses on three result areas: Social Protection, Agriculture, and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Reports indicate a surge in applications as residents battle the rising cost of living and harsh business environment.
In a related development, the Nigerian government previously opened portal for market women, small-scale traders, and artisans to access zero-interest loans of up to N100,000 through its MarketMoni and TraderMoni programs. MarketMoni provides interest-free loans to grow working capital, restock inventory, and expand businesses, with zero collateral, a 3-month moratorium before repayment, and nationwide coverage across all six geopolitical zones.
