Applications are officially open for the 2026 RecycleUp Innovation Program, a nationwide initiative designed to empower environmentally conscious students, researchers, entrepreneurs, and changemakers with the skills, resources, and ecosystem needed to tackle Nigeria’s waste challenge.
The programme aims to build a new generation of circular economy leaders by providing training, mentorship, collaboration opportunities, real-world project experience, and nationwide advocacy for sustainable waste management. Successful applicants will be onboarded in February 2026.
About the Program
The RecycleUp Innovation Program is a multi-faceted national initiative designed to accelerate Nigeria’s shift away from linear “take–make–dispose” systems toward a regenerative circular economy.
It focuses on key sectors, including:
- Built Environment
- Organic Material & Biowaste
- Energy
- Electronics & ICT
- Packaging & Plastics
- Textiles
- Water
- Food & Agriculture
The programme empowers 1,000 aspiring innovators and entrepreneurs with the tools to create sustainable, scalable solutions while promoting circular practices across Nigeria’s 36 states.
Programme Objectives
1. Foster Circular Innovation & Entrepreneurship
Equip 1,000 youths with technical and business skills to build scalable circular economy solutions.
2. Promote Nationwide Circular Practices
Drive widespread adoption of recycling, sustainable waste management, and circular behaviours among individuals, households, and businesses.
3. Empower Green Enterprises
Support the creation of innovative eco-friendly products, services, policies, and ventures that generate jobs and economic value.
4. Build a Collaborative Ecosystem
Connect entrepreneurs, researchers, industry stakeholders, policymakers, and mentors to drive systems-level change.
Who Can Apply?
The programme is open to a wide range of changemakers committed to solving environmental challenges:
- Students
- Researchers
- Innovators
- Entrepreneurs
- Households & individuals
- Corporate and community organisations
Selected participants will join a structured four-month programme running from January to April 2026.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be a Nigerian aged 21–40
- Demonstrate genuine interest in the circular economy and sustainability
- Show leadership potential and community impact commitment
- Be willing to commit at least 5 hours weekly
- Have a reliable internet connection and devices for virtual learning
Benefits of the RecycleUp Innovation Program
1. Professional Development
Advanced training in circular economy principles, sustainable waste management, and project implementation.
2. Certification
Participants receive a Certificate of Excellence, strengthening their professional portfolio and employability.
3. Networking Opportunities
Access to industry professionals, policymakers, researchers, and peers through workshops, conferences, and events.
4. Access to Training Materials
E-learning resources and reference materials for continuous learning.
5. Awards & Recognition
Top-performing participants will receive special awards based on performance criteria.
6. Business Ideation Support
Participants will develop business ideas inspired by the projects and training they undertake.
7. Visibility & Exposure
Fellows’ solutions and innovations will be showcased on various platforms, offering visibility within the sustainability ecosystem.
Program Duration & Timeline
- Application Deadline: 17 January 2025
- Onboarding: February 2026
- Programme Duration: January – April 2026 (4 months)
How to Apply
Applicants must fill out the official programme application form via the link below:
👉 Apply Here:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScVpCyAxeNx4P24qXympbkrNBrIpBRdpr7-76dbAng9rVgR-Q/viewform
Ensure you submit your application before the deadline.
