2026 AGRA–SMEDAN Youth Agri-Innovation Contest: Eligibility/ Benefits and How to Apply; Applications are now open for the 2026 AGRA–SMEDAN Youth Agri-Innovation Contest, an initiative designed to support young Nigerians involved in agribusiness and agrifood innovation.
The contest is open to Nigerian youths aged 18 to 35 who already operate an agribusiness or are developing a business idea in the agricultural sector. Eligible applicants can come from any state in Nigeria, with opportunities available to entrepreneurs at different stages of business development.
Interested applicants must complete the online application form on or before 16 October 2026.
Eligibility Requirements for the AGRA–SMEDAN Youth Agri-Innovation Contest
The contest welcomes young Nigerians who are interested in building or growing businesses within eligible agricultural value chains.
To qualify, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Be between 18 and 35 years old.
- Be Nigerian and reside in any state of the country.
- Own an existing agribusiness or be developing an agricultural business idea.
- Operate or plan to establish a business within the eligible agricultural and agrifood value chains.
The contest covers maize, rice, soybean and related agrifood value chains.
Women, rural youth and persons with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply.
Benefits of the AGRA–SMEDAN Youth Agri-Innovation Contest
Successful applicants will have the opportunity to participate in activities designed to strengthen their business skills, improve access to financing and support the growth of their agribusinesses.
The support available includes:
1. Certified Access-to-Finance Training
Participants will receive certified training on accessing finance to help them understand funding opportunities and prepare their businesses for potential investment.
2. Pitch Rounds and Expert Assessment
Applicants will participate in pitch rounds where expert reviewers will assess their business ideas and agribusiness proposals.
3. Grand Finale and Deal Room
The contest will feature a live grand finale and a deal room where participants can engage with financiers and explore potential funding opportunities.
4. Seed Capital for Ten Winners
Ten winners will receive seed capital and additional support to help advance their agribusiness ventures.
5. Six Months of Mentorship and Aftercare
Winners will also benefit from six months of mentorship and aftercare to support their business development and implementation following the contest.
How to Apply for the 2026 AGRA–SMEDAN Youth Agri-Innovation Contest
Interested and eligible applicants can apply online by following these steps:
- Visit the Youth Agri-Innovation Contest Application Portal.
- Complete the application form with the required information about yourself and your agribusiness or business idea.
- Review the information provided to ensure it is accurate before submitting the form.
- Submit the application before the deadline.
Applicants can also visit the official contest website for further information about the programme and application process.
AGRA–SMEDAN Youth Agri-Innovation Contest Application Deadline
The deadline for applications is 16 October 2026.
Eligible Nigerian youths between the ages of 18 and 35 who operate agribusinesses or are developing agricultural business ideas are encouraged to apply before the closing date.
The contest provides an opportunity for young agricultural entrepreneurs to access training, pitch their ideas to expert reviewers, connect with financiers and compete for seed capital, mentorship and business support.
