Deadline: 21-Jun-2026
The SouthEast Business Growth Fund 2026 supports young entrepreneurs in Southeast Nigeria with cash grants, advertising credit, and business training to scale their enterprises. It is an initiative of the Ike-Elechi Ogba Foundation aimed at improving access to capital, visibility, mentorship, and market expansion opportunities. Selected applicants receive ₦500,000 cash, ₦1,000,000 AfiaTV advertising credit, and fully funded training in Enugu.
SouthEast Business Growth Fund 2026 – Overview
The SouthEast Business Growth Fund 2026 is an entrepreneurship support programme designed to strengthen small and growing businesses in Southeast Nigeria.
- The programme is implemented by:
- Ike-Elechi Ogba Foundation
- Core purpose:
- Target group:
- Young entrepreneurs operating in Southeast Nigeria
Programme Objectives and Focus Areas
The initiative is structured to address key challenges faced by SMEs in the region.
- Key objectives include:
- Entrepreneurship development and empowerment
- SME capacity building and business scaling
- Improved access to capital and financial support
- Market expansion and customer reach
- Business training and mentorship
- Youth entrepreneurship development
- Increased enterprise visibility and branding support
- Regional economic growth and job creation
Funding and Financial Support Package
The programme provides a combined financial and promotional support package designed to accelerate business growth.
- Cash grant:
- ₦500,000 per selected entrepreneur
- Provided to support business operations and expansion
- Advertising support:
- ₦1,000,000 advertising credit on AfiaTV
- Valid for one year
- Intended to improve brand visibility and customer reach
- Overall value proposition:
- Financial support + media exposure + capacity building
Training and Capacity Building Component
Selected participants also benefit from structured business development training.
- Training programme details:
- Fully funded two-week business growth training
- Location: Enugu, Southeast Nigeria
- Includes:
- Accommodation
- Feeding (meals provided)
- Training focus areas:
Pitching and Networking Opportunities
The programme also includes exposure to investors, mentors, and industry leaders.
- Key opportunities include:
- Pitching at the SouthEast Business Growth Conference (July 2026)
- Business showcase and visibility opportunities
- Networking with industry stakeholders
- Access to mentorship and partnership opportunities
- Expected benefits:
- Increased brand recognition
- Potential investor interest
- Strategic business partnerships
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet specific requirements to qualify for the programme.
- Eligible applicants must:
- Be aged 18–35 years
- Operate a registered and active business
- Be based in Southeast Nigeria
- Demonstrate proof of business activity and revenue
- Provide evidence of business location
- Application requirements:
- Short video submission explaining:
- Business model
- How the grant will support growth
- Business impact and goals
- Short video submission explaining:
Application Requirements and Selection Process
The selection process is designed to assess business viability and growth potential.
- Required submission materials:
- Business registration details
- Proof of business operations
- Short explanatory video
- Selection considerations:
- Business activity level
- Growth potential
- Market traction and sustainability
- Clarity of business goals
Programme Impact and Development Goals
The SouthEast Business Growth Fund 2026 aims to create long-term economic and entrepreneurial impact in the region.
- Economic impact:
- Strengthening small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)
- Increasing employment opportunities
- Supporting regional economic development
- Entrepreneurial impact:
- Building business capacity and resilience
- Improving access to markets and capital
- Encouraging innovation and scalability
- Social impact:
- Youth empowerment through entrepreneurship
- Improved financial independence
- Stronger local business ecosystems
Conclusion
The SouthEast Business Growth Fund 2026 is a comprehensive entrepreneurship development initiative combining funding, training, and visibility support for young business owners in Southeast Nigeria.
- Key takeaway:
- Combines cash grants, advertising support, and training to accelerate SME growth
- Focuses on youth entrepreneurship and regional economic development
- Provides practical tools, exposure, and mentorship for long-term business success.
For more information, visit Ike-Elechi Ogba Foundation.