Call for Applications: AGRA-SMEDAN Youth Agribusiness Contest 2026
Applications are now open for the 2026 Youth in Agribusiness Innovation Contest.
This is an initiative supported by the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) and the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), aimed at identifying and supporting young Nigerians developing innovative agricultural businesses.
The national competition seeks young entrepreneurs with practical solutions across the agricultural value chain, offering a combined ₦17 million in cash prizes, business incubation, mentorship, specialised training and opportunities to connect with potential investors and buyers.
The initiative is delivered in collaboration with Jesnoch International Limited and Incubation Hub Nigeria Limited under a project designed to strengthen business development services and improve access to finance for agricultural small and medium-sized enterprises.
What Successful Applicants Stand to Gain
Selected entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to compete for financial support and business development assistance to strengthen their ventures.
The cash prizes are structured as follows:
- First place: ₦5 million
- First runner-up: ₦3 million
- Second runner-up: ₦2 million
- Fourth to tenth positions: ₦1 million each
Beyond the cash awards, the programme offers incubation support, six months of mentorship and introductions to potential financiers and buyers to help participating businesses improve their operations and expand their market reach. <Cite refs={[“turn382066search0″,”turn382066search2”]}/>
Eligible applicants can also access a virtual training session scheduled for Saturday, October 17, 2026, covering business planning, financial management, record-keeping, market access and financing opportunities.
Who Can Apply?
The competition is open to Nigerian citizens aged 18 to 35 who are developing or operating an agribusiness. Applicants may be at the idea, early-stage or growth stage, provided they meet the programme’s registration requirements.
Eligible businesses may operate in areas including:
- Climate-smart agriculture and sustainable farming
- Agricultural technology and digital solutions
- Agro-processing and value addition
- Agricultural supply chains and distribution
- Agricultural finance and insurance
- Farm security and related agricultural services
Applicants must have a recognised business registration through the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), SMEDAN’s MSME registration or registration as a cooperative society, in line with the competition’s requirements. <Cite refs={[“turn382066search2”]}/>
Young women, rural entrepreneurs and persons with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply.
Application Deadline
Applications opened on Friday, October 9, 2026, and will close on Friday, October 16, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. West Africa Time (WAT).
Applicants are advised to submit their entries before the deadline and ensure that all information provided is accurate.
How to Apply
Interested and eligible applicants should visit the official application portal below to review the requirements and complete the online application form.
Application portal: https://www.youthagriinnovate.ng
The competition provides an opportunity for young Nigerian agripreneurs to access funding, strengthen their business management skills and build connections that could support the growth of their agricultural enterprises.
