The NiYA × Cascador Founders Programme 2026 for Young Nigerian Entrepreneurs (Up to ₦5 Million)

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Applications are open for The NiYA × Cascador Founders Programme 2026. A structured 4-week development journey helping 20 young Nigerian founders build investment-ready businesses, with 8 eligible for up to ₦5 million each in non-dilutive funding. The NiYA × Cascador Founders Programme is a strategic partnership between the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Cascador and Sapphital, designed to support young Nigerian entrepreneurs through a structured 4-week journey focused on business development, investment readiness, pitch preparation and mentorship.

The pilot will select 20 founders, with the 8 top-performing founders eligible to receive up to ₦5 million each in non-dilutive funding from Cascador, alongside an ERP solution to support business growth.

The NiYA × Cascador Founders Programme aims to strengthen the pathway for young Nigerian entrepreneurs from business development to investment readiness and access to capital.

The programme will equip early-stage founders with practical business knowledge, investment-readiness skills, pitch preparation and mentorship, while creating opportunities for top-performing founders to access non-dilutive funding and business management support.

NiYA × Cascador Founders Programme Benefits

20 young Nigerian founders complete an intensive four-week business development programme.
Participants strengthen their business fundamentals and investment readiness.
Participants develop stronger and more effective business pitches.
Founders receive mentorship and practical guidance to support business growth.
8 top-performing founders receive up to ₦5 million each in non-dilutive funding from Cascador.
Funding recipients receive an ERP solution to support business structure, management and growth.
Participants gain stronger pathways to future entrepreneurship and business development opportunities through the NiYA ecosystem

Eligibility Criteria

Applicant must have completed at least one course on the Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA) platform.
Youth ownership: At least 51% owned by founder(s) aged 18–35.
Youth leadership: At least one founder aged 18–35 must work full-time in the business and hold a leadership role.
Nigeria: Registered and operating in Nigeria.
Stage: Product/service launched with evidence of customer adoption.
Sector: Operates in a sector creating positive economic or social value. Businesses in harmful or restricted industries (e.g. tobacco, gambling) are not eligible.
Operating history: Operating for at least 6 months.
Use of funds: Clear, credible use of the funding to accelerate growth.
Program participation: Founder available to participate fully in the 4 week program and final pitch

Required Documents

Business Registration Certificate (CAC)
Clear Passport Photograph with a White Background
National Identification Number (NIN) Slip
Pitch Deck
Certificate of Completion (NiYA Academy Course)

How To Apply for The NiYA × Cascador Founders Programme

Create one profile
- Register once. You reuse identity and organisation details for every call.
Prepare your pack
- Gather 5 required documents from the Documents tab.
Submit before close
- Send the application before 2026-08-26.

Click Here To Apply

Application Deadline: 26 August 2026