Applications are open for the NANSInnovate Business Grant Program 2026, a nationwide entrepreneurship initiative organised by the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) for students building businesses or developing viable business ideas while studying in Nigerian tertiary institutions.
The programme combines entrepreneurship training, mentorship, networking, pitching, and funding. The week-long programme ends with a national pitch competition where the top 20 student entrepreneurs compete for business funding.
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About NANSInnovate 2026
NANSInnovate 2026 is a national summit organised by NANS Headquarters under the leadership of Comr. Akinteye Afeez (BABTEE).
The initiative aims to identify and support students already building businesses across Nigerian tertiary institutions.
Participants get opportunities to:
- Pitch their businesses
- Meet investors and industry leaders
- Receive mentorship
- Network with other student founders
- Compete for funding
The NANSInnovate Business Grant Program supports both existing businesses and viable new business ideas.
Apply: Union Bank Management Program & Tech Bootcamp 2026
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for the NANSInnovate Business Grant Program, you must:
- Be a Nigerian citizen
- Be currently enrolled in a recognised Nigerian university, polytechnic, or college of education
- Have an existing business or viable business idea
- Have a valid student ID card
- Submit a business proposal in Microsoft Word format
- Apply without paying any fee
Students from all 36 states and the FCT qualify if they meet the requirements.
Required Documents
Prepare the following:
- Valid student ID card
- Business proposal
- CAC certificate, if available
- SMEDAN certificate, if available
Your student ID should be in JPG, PNG, or PDF format.
Business Proposal Format
Your proposal must meet these requirements:
- Microsoft Word (.docx)
- Maximum 10 pages
- Times New Roman
- Font size 12
- Single spacing
- Maximum file size of 5MB
Eligible Business Categories
Your business must fall under one of these categories:
- Production/Manufacturing
- Trading/Merchandise
- Service
- Agriculture
How to Apply for NANSInnovate Business Grant Program
Follow these five steps:
Go to Grants.nanshq.org
1. Prepare Your Documents
Get your student ID and business proposal ready. Include CAC or SMEDAN documents if available.
2. Complete the Entry Form
Provide your personal, school, and business information. Select your business category and indicate whether your venture is new or existing.
3. Upload Your Documents
Upload your files in the required formats.
4. Submit Your 100-Word Pitch
Briefly explain your business, why the business matters, and how you plan to use the funding.
5. Save Your Application Code
After submission, you receive a code similar to NANS-Inv-2026-K7T. Save or screenshot the code for checking your application status.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid:
- Using an expired student ID
- Submitting a proposal above 10 pages
- Using the wrong file format
- Exceeding the 5MB file limit
- Writing more than 100 words for your pitch
- Providing incorrect information
- Losing your application code
- Paying unofficial agents
Frequently Asked Questions
What is NANSInnovate Business Grant Program?
The NANSInnovate Business Grant Program supports Nigerian students building businesses or developing viable business ideas while studying in tertiary institutions.
Who qualifies for NANSInnovate Grants?
Currently enrolled Nigerian students at recognised universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education qualify if they meet all application requirements.
Do I need an existing business?
No. Students with viable business ideas also qualify.
What are the business categories?
Production/Manufacturing, Trading/Merchandise, Service, and Agriculture.
How much does the programme offer?
The programme title states a $100 funding opportunity. Check the official programme information for the current prize structure and finalist awards.
Is registration free?
Yes. Entry is free.
