The Federal Government of Nigeria has launched the NiYA Startup Pitch 2.0, an initiative under the Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA) designed to support young innovators and early-stage founders. The programme offers up to ₦100 million in grant funding, alongside training, mentorship, pitch support and access to a national innovation network.
For many young entrepreneurs in Nigeria, the central challenge is not talent or ambition but the absence of structure, guidance and capital. The NiYA Startup Pitch seeks to close these gaps by helping founders develop their ideas into scalable solutions that can contribute to the national digital economy.
This guide explains the programme in detail, from the eligibility requirements to the benefits and application steps. It also includes an SEO-aligned structure to help your website rank for government grants and youth entrepreneurship opportunities.
What Is the Federal Government NiYA Startup Pitch?
The NiYA Startup Pitch is part of a federal initiative to develop a new generation of Nigerian innovators. The programme provides a pathway for founders to sharpen their ideas, refine their business models, build traction and access funding.
It is tailored to young entrepreneurs who are building technology-driven products or solutions that address social, economic or environmental challenges within the country. The initiative promotes innovation across sectors such as education, health, agriculture, energy, fintech, digital commerce and civic technology.
Through its learning and pitching structure, NiYA exposes participants to practical tools that help them move from concept to product, and from early traction to national visibility.
Why the NiYA Startup Pitch Matters
Nigeria has one of the youngest populations in the world, and millions of young people are entering the workforce with limited formal employment opportunities. The rise of technology has created new pathways for problem-solving and job creation, but young founders often struggle to access early-stage support.
Government-backed programmes like NiYA play a vital role in bridging this gap. They provide:
• Technical training
• Business structure
• Access to networks
• Pathways to funding
• National exposure
• The confidence needed to build sustainable enterprises
By investing in young entrepreneurs, the government aims to strengthen the digital economy and drive grassroots innovation that can directly address local challenges.
NiYA Startup Pitch 2025 Summary
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Host Country: Nigeria
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Category: Competitions and Training
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Eligible Applicants: Nigerians aged 18 to 35
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Reward: Up to ₦100,000,000 in grant funding
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Deadline: Not Specified
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Focus: Youth-led startups and innovative ideas
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Application Mode: Online through NiYA platform
Eligibility Requirements for NiYA Startup Pitch 2025
To qualify for the programme, applicants must meet the following requirements:
1. Age Requirement
Applicants must be between 18 and 35 years old.
2. Residency
Applicants must currently reside in Nigeria.
3. Startup Structure
The startup must have at least two co-founders. This requirement encourages teamwork and improves the sustainability of the business.
4. NiYA Course Completion
Applicants must present a NiYA completion certificate. This shows they have completed the foundational training required by the programme.
5. NiYA Community Profile
All applicants must complete their NiYA community profile on the platform.
6. Pitch Deck Submission
Applicants must submit a pitch deck outlining:
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The problem
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The solution
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The target market
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Business model
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Team
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Market validation
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Growth plans
The pitch deck is one of the major documents used to evaluate readiness and potential.
Benefits of the NiYA Startup Pitch
Participants and winners receive a broad range of benefits that support their entrepreneurial journey.
1. Funding: Up to ₦100 Million
Successful applicants may receive up to ₦100,000,000. This grant helps founders build prototypes, hire talent, improve technology infrastructure, and scale across markets.
2. One-on-One Mentorship
Participants gain access to experienced founders, industry leaders and investors who help shape their ideas and refine growth strategies.
3. Enterprise Development Support
The programme offers training in:
• Business modelling
• Product development
• Marketing and distribution
• Legal structures
• Financial management
4. National Visibility
Startups receive visibility across:
• National media
• Government platforms
• Private-sector partner networks
This exposure increases credibility, trust and opportunities for partnerships.
5. Investor Access
Participants have opportunities to pitch to:
• Angel investors
• Venture capital firms
• Development partners
• Corporate innovation teams
6. Community and Networking
The NiYA initiative also provides access to an active innovation community with thousands of young entrepreneurs working across various sectors.
Required Materials for Application
To apply successfully, you need to prepare the following:
• Completed NiYA profile
• NiYA course completion certificate
• Pitch deck
• Basic business information
• Contact details
• Details of your co-founders
• Description of your innovation or product
Although the programme does not specify additional documents such as registration certificates or financial statements, applicants are encouraged to keep them ready for later verification.
How to Apply for the Federal Government NiYA Startup Pitch (Complete Step-by-Step Guide)
Step 1: Visit the NiYA Application Page
Click the green button on the official page to reach the application portal.
Step 2: Create or Complete Your NiYA Profile
If you are a new user, register. If you already have an account, update your profile.
Step 3: Complete the NiYA Training (If You Haven’t Already)
The NiYA course must be completed before you can pitch. Completing the programme helps you develop a stronger business concept.
Step 4: Prepare Your Pitch Deck
Ensure it covers:
• Problem and context
• Proposed solution
• Target users
• Technology used
• Market size
• Business model
• Competitive advantage
• Traction
• Funding needs
• Team structure
Step 5: Submit Your Application
Upload your pitch deck and required information through the online portal.
Step 6: Wait for Shortlisting
The review process includes screening, virtual interviews and pitch sessions.
Step 7: Pitch Before a Panel
Shortlisted participants will pitch before a committee of experts and investors.
Step 8: Receive Grant and Support
Successful founders are onboarded into the programme and connected to mentors, resources and the broader NiYA community.
Why Your Startup Should Apply
The NiYA Startup Pitch is not just a grant competition. It is a gateway to structure, partnership and long-term growth. Many founders struggle in the early years because they lack clarity, funding and market insight. Programmes like NiYA reduce these barriers and help founders progress faster.
Whether your startup is in fintech, agriculture, creative technology, climate tech, digital services or clean energy, there is room to apply.
Conclusion
The Federal Government NiYA Startup Pitch is one of the most promising innovation programmes available to young Nigerians today. The possibility of receiving ₦100 million, coupled with mentorship and national visibility, makes it an opportunity worth pursuing.
If you are a young founder with a strong idea and the discipline to build, this programme may be the turning point your startup needs.
Deadline: Not Specified
How to Apply: Click the official application button on the platform.