National Agribusiness Contest Launched for Young Nigerians

The Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa, the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), and Jesnoch International Limited have initiated the Annual Youth in Agribusiness Innovation Contest, aimed at young Nigerians aged 18 to 35. This competition provides opportunities for seed funding, mentorship, and business training for individuals at various stages of their agribusiness ventures.

Applications opened on October 8, 2026, and will close on October 16, 2026. Ten winners will receive funding and mentorship, while thirty finalists will pitch their businesses in Lagos on October 29, 2026.

The prizes will be awarded at the National MSME Conference in Lagos from November 8 to 10, 2026. Eligible applicants will also participate in a free virtual training session on October 17, 2026, covering essential agribusiness topics.

Additionally, 120 participants from Niger, Nasarawa, and Kaduna will undergo intensive training on October 21 and 22, 2026. The contest prioritizes applicants with registered agribusinesses and allocates 60% of finalist and training spots to the focal states.