The Federal Government of Nigeria has opened the application portal for the Student Venture Capital Grant, a nationwide funding programme that supports student-led ventures with grants of up to N50 million. The initiative is open to innovators across all 37 states and the FCT, especially those building solutions in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medical Sciences.
How to apply
Students apply through the official portal at svcg.education.gov.ng. The process is structured to help applicants move from idea to a market-ready venture.
1. Submit your business
Students or teams upload their business details, pitch video, and funding request through the official S-VCG portal.https://svcg.education.gov.ng
2. Get reviewed and receive feedback
Applications go through several review rounds. Projects that are not immediately selected still receive feedback and remain visible in the Innovation Repository for future opportunities.
3. Validate and refine your solution
Shortlisted applicants enter a validation stage where they refine their ideas, strengthen their business model, and prepare for milestone-based funding.
4. Receive milestone-based funding
Approved ventures unlock funding in stages as they meet agreed milestones. Their progress is tracked within the S-VCG system during incubation.
How to create your account on the S-VCG platform
To apply, students must first create an account on the portal.
1. Enter your basic information
Provide your first name, last name, email address, mobile number, and National Identification Number. A 4-digit OTP will be sent to your email for verification.
2. Complete your student profile
Select your institution type, school, department, and level of study.
3. Upload a valid school document
Upload either your School ID, Admission Letter, or School Fees Receipt. The document must be in PDF, PNG, JPEG, or JPG format and must not exceed 10 MB.
4. Finalize account creation
After submitting your details and documents, you can access the application dashboard and upload your business proposal.
The grant is open to students enrolled in Nigerian universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education, whether public or private. Applicants must be at least in 300 level or equivalent. Those below 300 level can apply only as part of a team led by an eligible student. A registered company is not required, but all projects must have a business name registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission before funding.
Applications can be submitted individually or as a team. A clear business plan outlining expenditure milestones and KPIs is required. Projects must fall under STEMM and must be beyond the proof-of-concept stage, showing real potential rather than being just an idea.
