Federal Government Launches Student Venture Capital Grant for Student Innovators Nationwide
The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially opened applications for the Student Venture Capital Grant (S-VCG) — a national funding programme designed to empower student innovators with grants of up to ₦50 million.
This initiative targets students across all 36 states, the FCT, and the 6 geopolitical zones, with a special focus on innovations in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medical Sciences (STEMM).
How to Apply for the S-VCG Grant
All applications must be submitted online through the official portal:
👉 https://svcg.education.gov.ng
The application process is designed to help students progress from an initial idea to a fully validated, market-ready venture.
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1. Submit Your Venture
Applicants (individuals or teams) are required to upload:
- Business concept and details
- A short pitch video
- Funding requirements
All submissions are made directly on the official S-VCG portal.
2. Review and Feedback Stage
Proposals go through multiple rounds of assessment by expert reviewers.
Even if a project is not immediately shortlisted, it stays visible in the Innovation Repository, where it may be considered for future programmes or opportunities.
3. Validation and Venture Refinement
Shortlisted ventures proceed to a validation phase.
During this stage, applicants:
- Strengthen their business model
- Test assumptions
- Refine their solutions
- Prepare for milestone-based funding
4. Milestone-Based Funding Release
Successful applicants receive funding in phases.
Each milestone must be achieved before additional funds are released, ensuring accountability and structured growth.
All progress is monitored through the S-VCG incubation system.
How to Create an S-VCG Account
Before applying, students must create a personal profile on the portal.
Step 1: Provide Basic Information
Enter your:
- First name & last name
- Email address
- Mobile number
- National Identification Number (NIN)
A 4-digit OTP will be sent to your email for verification.
Step 2: Complete Your Student Profile
Select your:
- Institution type (University, Polytechnic, COE)
- School name
- Department
- Current level of study
Step 3: Upload a Valid School Document
You may upload one of the following:
- Student ID card
- Admission letter
- School fees receipt
Allowed formats: PDF, PNG, JPEG, JPG
Maximum file size: 10 MB
Step 4: Finalize Your Registration
Once your profile is complete, you can log in to your dashboard and proceed to upload your business proposal.
Who Can Apply?
The grant is open to:
- Students enrolled in Nigerian universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education (public or private)
- Individuals in 300 level or above (or the equivalent)
Students below 300 level can apply only as team members, provided the team lead meets eligibility requirements.
A registered company is not mandatory to apply.
However, funded projects must obtain a registered Business Name with CAC before funds can be disbursed.
Applicants may apply:
- Individually
- As a team
Each proposal must include:
- A clear business plan
- Defined expenditure milestones
- Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- Proof that the idea is beyond the “prototype stage” and shows real-world viability
Only projects within STEMM fields will be considered.