The Federal Government has launched the NiYA × Cascador Founders Programme, a new initiative that promises up to N5 million in non-dilutive funding for young Nigerian entrepreneurs. Applications open on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, through the Nigerian Youth Academy website at niya.gov.ng.
The programme is a partnership between the Nigerian Youth Academy, which operates under the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, and private firm Cascador. Minister of Youth Development Ayodele Olawande announced the initiative on the ministry's X handle on Friday, July 25, 2026.
What the NiYA × Cascador Founders Programme Offers
Shortlisted applicants will join a four-week intensive programme covering business fundamentals, investment readiness, pitch preparation, and one-on-one mentorship. Only the top-performing founders at the end of the cohort will receive the non-dilutive funding of up to N5 million each from Cascador. This means successful recipients will not surrender any equity in their businesses in exchange for the money.
Beneficiaries will also receive an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) solution to help them manage and grow their operations.
Minister Olawande Explains the Programme's Purpose
Olawande said the initiative was designed to address a gap that has long held back young founders: the distance between training and actual capital. Many early-stage entrepreneurs in Nigeria lack the financial records or professional networks typically required to attract investors.
“We do not want to stop at training. We want to build a stronger bridge from learning to enterprise, from ideas to investment readiness, and from potential to sustainable businesses,” the minister said.
How to Apply for the N5 Million Grant
The minister said the collaboration grew out of direct engagements between his ministry and Cascador, including a meeting he hosted on April 29, 2026. He described the initiative as proof that such conversations can produce concrete results for Nigerian youth.
Applications open on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, through the Nigerian Youth Academy website at niya.gov.ng. Prospective applicants should monitor the platform from that date for the official eligibility criteria, the application form, and submission guidelines.
It is important to note that the N5 million funding is not guaranteed to every applicant. Only founders who complete the programme and rank among the top performers will be considered for the grant.
