The AGRA–SMEDAN Youth Agri‑Innovation Contest 2026 is open to young Nigerian agripreneurs. Applications close on 16 October 2026. The contest aims to find, train, and connect promising youth-led agribusinesses with financiers across Nigeria.
In addition, participants can benefit from certified access-to-finance training, pitch rounds, and a national showcase. Ten winners will receive seed capital and support, while winners also get six months of mentorship and aftercare.
Key Details:
Application Deadline: Applications close 16 October 2026
Eligible Countries: Nigeria
Contest Type: National agribusiness innovation contest for young Nigerian agripreneurs
Prize / Benefits: Seed capital and support for 10 winners, certified access-to-finance training, Deal Room with financiers, and six months of mentorship/aftercare
About the Contest
This contest targets youth working in maize, rice, soybean, and allied agrifood value chains. It welcomes applicants from any state in Nigeria, including those at idea stage and those already running businesses.
The program combines virtual and in-person activities. According to the official page summary provided, key activities include nationwide virtual training on 17 October 2026, in-person training on 21–22 October 2026 in Niger, Nasarawa, and Kaduna, the Pitch and Grand Finale on 29 October 2026, and the National Showcase and Award in Lagos from 8–10 November 2026.
Furthermore, the contest offers an 8-module certified access-to-finance training in English and Hausa. Finalists will pitch live before expert reviewers and financiers, including banks, DFIs, agri-lenders, and impact investors.
- 100+ youths trained in access to finance
- 30 finalists pitch live at the Grand Finale
- 10 winners receive seed capital and support
- Winners receive six months of mentorship and aftercare
- Outstanding applicants may be featured in innovation showcase profiles
- Feedback is provided to every applicant
Eligibility
To apply, you should meet the following criteria:
- Be a Nigerian youth aged 18 to 35
- Be running an agribusiness or building one
- Apply from any state in Nigeria
- Work in maize, rice, soybean, or allied agrifood value chains
- Be at any stage, from idea to established business
Women, rural youth, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should complete their application through the official contest portal before the deadline. Before you apply, review the official page carefully for full instructions and updates.
👉 Visit the official contest page for details
