Application Deadline: June 22, 2026
The Farmers for the Future Grant 2026 is now open for applications from serving NYSC members in Nigeria who have viable agribusiness ideas or existing agricultural ventures. Designed to empower the next generation of agricultural entrepreneurs, the program provides equity-free funding, mentorship, training, and business support to help young Nigerians build sustainable agribusinesses.
The initiative is sponsored by the British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation (BATNF), in partnership with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), and is implemented by the New Nigeria Foundation.
Agriculture remains one of Nigeria’s most important sectors, yet many young entrepreneurs struggle to access the funding and support needed to grow their businesses. The Farmers for the Future (F4F) Grant seeks to address this challenge by investing in innovative young agripreneurs who are committed to creating impact within the agricultural value chain.
The program is specifically designed to serve NYSC members with promising agribusiness ideas. Beyond financial support, participants will receive practical business training, mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs and agricultural experts, and access to networks that can help them secure future opportunities.
Selected participants will first undergo a competitive selection process that includes a virtual bootcamp where they will strengthen their business concepts, refine their value propositions, and develop compelling pitches. The most outstanding participants will then present their businesses before a panel of judges and investors for a chance to secure funding.
A total equity-free grant pool of ₦10 million will be awarded to the top six finalists. The winners will also receive continued mentorship and technical support to help transform their ideas into successful and scalable enterprises.
The program forms part of BATNF’s broader commitment to youth development, job creation, and increased participation in sustainable agriculture across Nigeria.
Eligibility
Applicants must:
- Be a currently serving NYSC member in Nigeria
- Have a viable agribusiness idea or existing agricultural business
- Demonstrate interest in entrepreneurship and agricultural development
- Be willing to participate in all stages of the competition, including training and pitching activities
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Benefits
Successful participants will gain access to:
- Equity-free grant funding worth a total of ₦10 million
- First Prize: ₦3,000,000
- Second Prize: ₦2,000,000 each for two winners
- Third Prize: ₦1,000,000 each for three winners
- Participation in an intensive virtual business bootcamp
- Mentorship from seasoned entrepreneurs and agricultural experts
- Technical support to establish and grow agribusiness ventures
- Access to financial institutions and potential investors for future financing opportunities
- Business registration support and guidance on legal and regulatory requirements
- Membership in the Farmers for the Future Alumni Network
- Access to additional training and development opportunities
Application
The competition will take place in five stages:
Stage 1: Online application submission.
Stage 2: Twenty selected businesses will participate in a virtual bootcamp focused on business development and pitch preparation.
Stage 3: The top ten businesses will advance to a pitch event where they will present before a panel of judges and investors.
Stage 4: Six winners will receive funding, mentorship, and support to scale their agribusinesses.
Stage 5: Winners become part of the Farmers for the Future Alumni Network, gaining continued access to mentorship, opportunities, and industry connections.
For more details, visit Farmers for the Future Grant.
