Hope is rising for millions of aspiring young Nigerian entrepreneurs as the Federal Government has announced July 2025 as the official start date for the Youth Empowerment and Innovation Development Programme (YEIDEP) grant disbursement.
The initiative, which has already attracted over 4.6 million applicants, will provide non-repayable, interest-free grants ranging from ₦50,000 to ₦500,000 to support youth-led businesses across Nigeria.
YEIDEP is a flagship program spearheaded by the Federal Ministry of Youth Development in collaboration with the Youths Off The Street Initiative (YOTSI), designed to promote economic inclusion, job creation, and grassroots entrepreneurship.
Targeting young entrepreneurs across strategic sectors including agriculture, information and communications technology (ICT), fashion, retail, and vocational trades, the program aims to unlock the potential of Nigeria’s youth as key drivers of economic growth and innovation.
According to officials, applicants whose ideas demonstrate viability and social impact will be prioritized, and funds will be channeled to assist with startup capital, business expansion, and skill-based initiatives.
YEIDEP is part of the broader national effort to empower Nigerian youth, reduce unemployment, and stimulate micro and small enterprise development in both urban and rural areas.
Further updates regarding beneficiary selection and verification processes are expected to be released in the coming weeks.
