Call for Applications: Tech Women Fest Laptop Initiative 2026 for Young Women in Nigeria

Deadline: September 5, 2026

Applications are open for the Tech Women Fest Laptop Initiative 2026, an opportunity designed to provide laptops to young women in Nigeria who are pursuing careers in technology but lack access to a personal computer.

The initiative aims to help reduce the digital access gap by giving selected young women the tools they need to learn, practise their skills, build technology projects and advance their professional careers.

The programme is open to eligible applicants in Lagos, Ogun and Oyo States, with successful recipients expected to receive their laptops during Tech Women Fest Lagos in October 2026.

About the Tech Women Fest Laptop Initiative

The Laptop Initiative is part of Tech Women Fest Lagos 2026 and focuses on addressing one of the practical barriers that can prevent young women from progressing in technology: limited access to personal computing devices.

Having a laptop can make it easier for aspiring technology professionals to participate in online courses, practise technical skills, develop projects, build portfolios and pursue employment or freelance opportunities.

The initiative therefore targets young women who are actively developing careers in technology and require a personal laptop to support their learning and professional growth.

Who Can Apply?

The initiative is open to young women who meet the following conditions:

Reside in Lagos, Ogun or Oyo State.

Are currently pursuing or developing a career in technology.

Need access to a personal laptop to support their learning and professional development.

Are willing to register for Tech Women Fest Lagos.

Are willing to complete the separate Laptop Initiative application.

Applicants should be prepared to demonstrate how access to a laptop would support their technology journey and career development.

What Selected Applicants Will Receive

Successful applicants will receive:

A personal laptop to support their technology career.

Access to a device for learning and skills development.

An opportunity to use the laptop for building projects and developing a professional portfolio.

Participation in the Tech Women Fest Lagos ecosystem.

The laptop is intended to provide practical support for beneficiaries as they continue developing their skills and pursuing opportunities within the technology sector.

How to Apply

Applicants are required to complete two separate steps before the deadline.

Step 1: Register for Tech Women Fest Lagos

Applicants must first register for Tech Women Fest Lagos.

APPLY HERE

ECOWAS Startup Awards 2026: Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for $65,000 Prize

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has opened applications for the second edition of its Startup Awards, giving startups across the region, including Nigeria, an opportunity to compete for a total cash prize of $65,000.

The programme is designed to identify and support innovative startups while promoting digital entrepreneurship, innovation and economic integration across West Africa.

Applications opened on August 3, 2026, and will close on August 31, 2026. The official application portal lists the deadline as 10:59 p.m. GMT on August 31.

Who Can Apply?

The awards are open to startups based in ECOWAS member states. The programme will select 60 startups from across the region for participation.

Applicants should have an innovative business operating within one of the six priority sectors:

• EdTech and Skills Development
• FinTech
• HealthTech
• AgriTech and Food Systems
• CleanTech, Climate and Green Innovation
• Tourism, Hospitality and TravelTech

Female-led startups are particularly encouraged to participate.

How to Apply

Step 1: Visit the application portal

Interested startups should visit the official ECOWAS Startup Awards application portal and begin the application process.

Step 2: Provide your startup information

Applicants will be required to provide relevant details about their startup, including information that demonstrates the nature of the business, the problem it addresses and the solution it offers.

Step 3: Explain the innovation

Applicants should clearly demonstrate what makes their solution innovative and how it responds to a specific need or challenge.

Step 4: Highlight the team and business model

The application should demonstrate the capacity of the team to execute the idea, as well as explain the startup’s business model and financial viability.

Step 5: Demonstrate market potential and impact

Startups should show the potential of their businesses to scale across markets, alongside their social and economic impact and alignment with ECOWAS priorities.

Step 6: Submit before the deadline

Completed applications must be submitted by August 31, 2026. Applicants are advised to ensure that all required information is provided before submitting their entries.

How Startups Will Be Selected

Applications will be assessed using several criteria, including problem clarity and solution fit, innovation and originality, team capacity, market potential and scalability, business model and financial viability.

Social and economic impact, alignment with ECOWAS priorities, as well as the quality of the pitch, online voting and data integrity will also form part of the assessment.

The scoring is weighted as follows:

Problem clarity and solution fit: 20 per cent

Innovation and originality: 20 per cent

Team capacity and execution ability: 15 per cent

Market potential and scalability: 10 per cent

Business model and financial viability: 10 per cent

Social and economic impact: 10 per cent

Alignment with ECOWAS priorities: 10 per cent

Pitch, online voting and data integrity: 5 per cent

What Selected Startups Will Get

Selected startups will participate in virtual masterclasses from September 21 to 25, 2026, before proceeding to the physical programme in Abuja from September 28 to 30.

The regional finals will take place on September 30, where finalists will pitch their businesses before an independent jury of industry experts, investors and policy stakeholders.

APPLY HERE

Google Hustle Academy Bootcamp 2026 for young Africans.

Applications are now open for the Google Hustle Academy 2026 – a free, high-impact training program designed to help SMEs scale using digital tools, strategy, and AI. Google have redesigned the programme to be shorter, more practical, and easier to attend without compromising impact.

Requirements

This new format is open to individuals and small businesses across Africa, whether you are:

An individual interested in Business and AI skills  

A Hustle Academy alumnus

A past applicant who did not qualify for the programme

A business owner looking to grow online

An entrepreneur exploring digital tools and new markets

Program Details

1) 60-minute Expert Webinars

Focused, practical sessions led by industry experts

Covering digital marketing, e-commerce, business strategy, financial management, and AI tools for growth.

Designed to fit into your busy schedule

2) 1-Day Bootcamps (3–5 Hours)

Three high-impact modules delivered in one day

Actionable frameworks, tools, and templates you can apply immediately

Live Q&A and interactive learning with facilitators and peers

Step 1: Join the Free Webinar (Open to All)

Start your journey with the official Hustle Academy Webinar

Step 2: Get Selected for the Bootcamp (Limited Slots)

After the webinar, selected participants will be invited to the Hustle Academy Bootcamp:

Focus areas:

Business strategy

Sales & growth

Digital marketing & AI

Financial planning

Leadership & scaling

Benefits

Participants will gain practical skills in:

Building and scaling an online presence

Digital marketing and ads optimisation

Business strategy and growth planning

Financial management

AI tools for your business or career growth

Content Overview

Business Foundations for Growth

Module 1: Master Your Market & Sales Funnel

Session 2: Upgrade Your Leadership in a Digital-First World

Session 3: Making Sense of AI

Sell and Scale with AI

Module 1: Launch Your Online Store with Confidence

Module 2: Practical AI for your business

Module 3: AI: From Busy to Productive

Digital Visibility & Content Creation

Module 1: Design a Marketing Strategy with AI

Module 2: Create Engaging Short-Form Content

Module 3: Practical AI for Marketing

Growth Strategy & Financial Planning

Module 1: Set Revenue Targets That Drive Growth

Module 2: Financial Planning for Businesses

Module 3: Craft a Winning Business Pitch

AI Skills for Individuals

Module 1: Making Sense of AI

Module 2: Think Like a Consultant: Smarter Business Decisions

Module 3: Practical AI for the Workplace.

APPLY HERE

APPLY Now For Petty Traders Grant Support Programme: Up to N100,000 (Nigeria)

Jan – Mar, 2026 

The Petty Traders Grant Support Programme is a community-driven initiative designed to empower aspiring and existing small-scale business owners. It provides financial assistance to individuals who need low start-up capital for petty trading, such as buying and selling goods or offering basic services. For existing traders, the grant can serve as additional funding to strengthen and expand their businesses.

This programme provides seed capital between ₦10,000 and ₦100,000 to help petty traders generate sustainable income. Unlike most funding opportunities, no business registration is required, and the process is simple, with minimal documentation. As long as you are a Nigerian resident within the required age bracket, you are eligible to apply.

Key Features of the Petty Traders Grant Support Programme

Supports individuals to start or grow a small business.

Specifically designed for petty traders requiring little start-up capital.

Provides seed capital of ₦10,000 – ₦100,000.

Easy access with minimal documentation.

Open to all Nigerians within the required age bracket residing in the country.

Available to applicants with or without CAC registration.

Application Requirements

To qualify, applicants must:

Be between 18 – 55 years old.

Be an entrepreneur or aspiring entrepreneur.

Own a business or have a business idea/initiative.

Possess a valid National Identification Number (NIN Slip).

Provide the details of one contact person.

Have a verifiable residential address.

Hold a valid 10-digit bank account number.

Reside in Nigeria.

Submit a duly completed application form.

Key Dates

Application Opens: 29th of January,2026

Application Closes: 31st of March,2026

Disbursement for Petty Traders Grant Support Programme: April - May,2026

 

How to Apply for the Petty Traders Grant Support Programme 2026

Step 1: Register

Submit your personal and business details through the application form.

Click here to register

Step 2: Onboard

Fill out the form carefully with correct details to avoid disqualification during verification. Review your entries before submission—changes cannot be made once submitted.

⚠️ Do not apply more than once.

Step 3: Get Paid

After successful registration:

You may be contacted for further information or clarification.

Shortlisted candidates will be published on this website. Applicants are encouraged to check regularly for updates.

Once verified, you will be notified of your eligibility for the grant.

APPLY HERE

WEBSITE

Apply Now for the Her Africa Early Stage Incubator 2026 cohort.

What Is the Her Africa Early Stage Incubator (HAESI) 2026?

The Her Africa Early Stage Incubator — often referred to as HAESI, is a liberatory leadership fellowship and incubator program run by the Alliance for Women and Girls (AFWAG). It’s designed to support founders and changemakers across Africa who are building organisations, ventures, or initiatives with a strong focus on gender justice and impact for women and girls.

Purpose & Focus

HAESI is built to help tackle systemic barriers faced by early-stage leaders and their organisations by:

Building leadership capacity grounded in equity and liberation practices.

Strengthening organisational resilience beyond just scaling a project.

Encouraging Pan-African collaboration and shared learning.

Supporting participants to transform systems, not just deliver services.

Who Should Apply

The 2026 cohort is open to young African founders (under 35) who are:

Leading or co-founding an organisation or initiative focused on supporting women and girls;

The organisation is in its early stage (often ≤ 3 years old);

Exceptional founders at the idea or ideation stage are also encouraged to express interest;

Working on solutions in areas such as education, health, gender equality, environmental sustainability, poverty alleviation, etc., particularly for women and girls.

Program Structure

Duration & Format

A six-month fully funded program — largely conducted online with possible regional engagements or peer exchange opportunities. 

Core Components

Liberatory leadership practice — fostering new leadership mindsets built on equity, care, and collective action. 

Organisational strengthening — skills around strategic planning, management, and sustainability. 

Systems-level tools -  frameworks to address root-cause problems and influence policy and systemic change.

Pan-African peer exchange - working in cross-border “houses” with cohort members for mutual learning and collaboration. 

Community care and wellbeing support - emphasising sustainable leadership and collective solidarity. 

Long-term network access - connection to AFWAG’s wider alumni community for continued collaboration. 

Benefits of Participation

Selected fellows receive:

Targeted mentorship and coaching. 

Peer learning and collaboration across Africa. 

Systems-thinking tools and frameworks. 

Improved leadership, organisational, and strategic capacities. 

Access to networks, partnerships, and future opportunities.

How to Apply

Applications for the 2026 cohort are open now. 

Prospective applicants submit an online expression of interest via the official HAESI/AFWAG portal. 

While specific application details may vary slightly, applicants typically need to showcase their venture’s mission, impact potential, and alignment with gender justice goals. 

WEBSITE

APPLY HERE

Call For Applications: SEEDINVEST Acceleration Program For MSMEs in Nigeria ( Up to N5 Million Grant Prize)

Deadline: July 21, 2024

All over the world today, the major sector driving employment, income growth, and capacity development is entrepreneurship.

Not just entrepreneurship for its sake, but successful businesses and the impact of these businesses on national development and gross domestic product.

Nigeria is indeed blessed with great entrepreneurs but unfortunately, most Nigerian businesses do not transcend generations, making an entrepreneurial revolution the solution to Nigeria’s economic and employment challenges.

Our desire at ‘Biodun and Ibikunle Foundation is to drive the entrepreneurial revolution in Nigeria and Africa through our SEEDINVEST Acceleration Program.

The SEEDINVEST Acceleration Program empowers micro and small businesses with asset grants, entrepreneurial training, and advisory services to help them thrive.

For each business that succeeds, we see the economic and social returns such businesses will bring. This includes poverty eradication, employment creation, better mental and physical wellbeing, etc.

Eligibility

KINDLY READ CAREFULLY BEFORE YOU APPLY.

Must be a registered business with the Corporate Affairs Commission.

Must be operational for a minimum of six (6) months.

Must have a 5 years business plan.

Must have a business account with any of the commercial banks in Nigeria.

Must have a Tax Identification Number (TIN).

Product Certification by relevant regulatory body/bodies must be provided where required.

Business address must be verifiable.

Benefits:

5 BUSINESSES TO WIN 5 MILLION NAIRA! IN ASSET GRANT FOR THEIR BUSINESS!

Entrepreneurial Training

Mentoring

Asset Grants Much More…

APPLY HERE

LEADWAY ASSURANCE GRADUATE TRAINEE PROGRAM 2024 FOR YOUNG NIGERIAN GRADUATES.

Deadline: June 30, 2024

Calling all Graduates with STEEZE! To join the Leadway Assurance Graduate Trainee Programme and build a thriving career while making an impact.

Requirements:

• Must have a BA or BSc Degree from a recognized institution with a minimum of second class lower.

• Must have completed NYSC.

• 0-2 years work experience (Inclusive NYSC service year)

• Not older than 27 years of age

APPLY HERE

Bold Woman Award by Veuve Clicquot (2024)

Welcome on the Bold Open Database, the first open and free database that lists and makes visible all female entrepreneurs worldwide.

Since 1972, Maison Veuve Clicquot has continued the legacy of Madame Clicquot by rewarding and promoting daring women entrepreneurs who impact their sector of activity and Society.

The Bold Woman Award rewards an emblematic woman entrepreneur for her career, her journey and the success of her business and the Bold Future Award rewards a woman entrepreneur who has created or taken over her business less than 5 years ago.

The Bold Open Data Base

Launched in December 2022 to mark the 50th anniversary of the Bold by Veuve Clicquot Program, The Bold Open Data Base is the first open, free and global database that lists and makes visible all female entrepreneurs on the planet.

The Bold Open Data Base was created by Veuve Clicquot. It allows journalists, researchers, investors or entrepreneurs themselves to find female entrepreneurs with varied profiles, from all sectors, all business sizes, in France and around the world.

Prepare your application

To start your application, please refer to the application calendar further down on the web page. We recommend that you prepare the answers to the questionnaire below in advance before starting the online application process.

Is the candidate the founder / co-founder / manager of a company?

Is the company based in the coutry where the candidate lives?

Is the candidate an adult?

Name / Company name

Company address (department)

Creation date

Company legal number

Describe the main activity of your

 company

Number of employees

2023 turnover

If you have carried out fundraising, please indicate this

How long have you been an entrepreneur and how did you get the desire to start a business?

How was your business project born and what is your involvement in its design?

What makes it an innovative/bold concept?

Have you had any obstacles in your entrepreneurial journey? If yes, which ones ?

What are your future plans and the development prospects for your business?

Does your company adopt a CSR approach? If yes, what actions are you taking?

For you, what role can your company play in society?

How can your business and your journey serve as a model for future women entrepreneurs? What advice could you give them?

Are you taking actions to encourage entrepreneurship outside your company?

 Where would you like to lead one? If so why ?

Have you had role models who have inspired you during your career? If yes, which ones ?

What are your motivations for receiving this Prize?

How did you hear about this Prize?

Do not hesitate to attach any document likely to support your application (CV, presentation model of your company, financial statement, etc.).

READ MORE AND APPLY HERE

ACCESS BANK’S W INITIATIVE WOMENPRENEUR PITCH-A-TON 2024 (NAIRA 5 MILLION FINANCIAL GRANT & A MINI MBA FROM INTERNATIONAL FINANCE CORPORATION)

 

Deadline: August 9th, 2024

Applications are now open for the Womenpreneur Pitch-A-ton Season 6. Launched in 2019, the Womenpreneur Pitch-a-ton program is the first women-in-business support initiative of its kind in the industry offered by Access Bank’s W Initiative. The program in its maiden edition provided a free mini-MBA certification for 50 women entrepreneurs in Nigeria as well as financial grants worth N9Million to the top 3 applicants. This it did in conjunction with the International Finance Corporation (IFC, a member of the World Bank Group). Subsequently, the program was extended to 10 other African countries where Access Bank’s W initiative has its presence.

The program has since provided Mini-MBA to over 300 women entrepreneurs across Africa. This year hosts the 5th season of the program and seeks to provide mini-MBA certification to another 120 women entrepreneurs in Nigeria as well as grants worth over N17Million Naira to WSMEs.

The 2024 Womenpreneur Pitch-a-ton programme for Nigeria will officially kick off on Monday, June 24th – August 9th, 2024 and will offer financial grants, an exclusive certified capacity building program and business coaching aimed at empowering women entrepreneurs.

Requirements

Interested female entrepreneurs who meet the criteria of having an existing business for at least one year with at least 50% female ownership and between the age range of 18- 55 years are eligible

Benefits

They will benefit from an exclusive and certified Mini-MBA and grant prizes.

The programme is designed for a 3-month period comprising 8 weeks of mini-MBA training in collaboration with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and pitching sessions to a Pan-African Jury panel where the top finalists will pitch their businesses, infusing learnings from the mini-MBA and will stand an opportunity to win financial grants and other consolation prizes.

Application Procedure:

All online applications will be reviewed and screened by independent business experts for all five hundred (500) candidates who will be required to send in a sixty-second video pitch for the opportunity to be selected as part of the final top 120 candidates.

APPLY HERE

IAN PARRY SCHOLARSHIP PRIZE 2024 FOR YOUNG PHOTO JOURNALISTS (£10,000 PRIZE)

Application Deadline: 31 August 2024

Applications are now open for the 2024 Ian Parry Scholarship Prize. The Ian Parry Photojournalism Grant supports young and emerging photographers as they embark on their career in the world of photojournalism.

Requirements

The Ian Parry Photojournalism Grant is an international photographic competition for young photographers who are 24 years of age or under, or anyone who is studying in a full-time photographic course.

Entrants must submit a portfolio of 12 images and a clear proposal of a project they would undertake if they received the grant.

Benefits

Each winner will receive £10,000 towards their chosen project

Publication of images by our media partner The Guardian

Loan of Canon equipment for 1 year for the IP Grant winner to complete their proposed project

Inclusion in the Hamburg portfolio review

Eligible for inclusion in the Canon

 Transmissions Programme at Visa Pour L’Image in Perpignan

A year-long personal mentorship with an industry expert

An assignment by the Founder and CEO of Legacy of War Foundation, renowned photojournalist Giles Duley.

We also offer conflict training and body armour to the winner of the IP Photojournalism Grant.

In addition, each year a selection of long-listed individuals will have their work spotlighted by the panel of industry judges.

The honorary Tom Stoddart Award for Excellence may also be given yearly on the judges’ discretion.

How to Enter

Candidates applying for the Grant should ensure that their application contains the following information:

Your name, date of birth, permanent address, personal email address, personal telephone number, and if applicable, college, the course title, and course tutor.

A portfolio of 12 photographs, either a photo essay or individual photos.

A project description giving us details of the portfolio you have uploaded for this application

A clear project proposal explaining what project you would undertake if you received the scholarship.

Extended captions for each image as a PDF document. 

Please follow the instructions on our submission form carefully.

Timeline:

31 August 2024: Submission deadline

October 2024: Recipients announcement

APPLY HERE

CREATIVE BUSINESS CUP NIGERIA 2024 FOR YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS (1 MILLION NAIRA GRANT)

Application Deadline: Ongoing

Applications are now open for the 2024 Creative Business Cup Nigeria. Creative Business Cup is much more than just a competition – it is a global year-round initiative that empowers entrepreneurs in the creative industries, helping them grow their business ideas, connecting them to investors and the global markets, and strengthening their innovative capabilities to the benefit of industry and society.

 The Creative Business Cup provides an opportunity to get exposure and to meet industry partners and investors.

 The purpose of CBC Nigeria is to empower not only the participating startups but also the creative startup community throughout Nigeria.

Sectors

Design

Leisure Activities

Publishing

Fashion

Film, Video & Photography

Software, computer games & electronic publishing (for creative industries)

Toys & Games

3D printing maker

Craft & Artisan

Music

Gastronomy

Architecture

Experiences technologies

Eligibility Requirements

You must: 

Must be between 18 – 35 age

Be a female entrepreneur from the creative sector

Show creativity and innovation

Have an idea with business potential

Open to all 

BENEFITS

A chance to win 1 million naira

Accelerator programme

5-day enterprise Bootcamp

Mentoring from a pool of international mentors

Business support services

APPLY HERE

UNFPA SCHOLARSHIP FOR A FIRST LEVEL MASTER PROGRAM IN COFFEE ECONOMICS AND SCIENCE FOR CAMEROONIAN WOMEN GRADUATES (FULLY FUNDED TO ITALY)

Application Deadline: June 30, 2024

With the vision of scaling up investment in the development of the full potential of the young people in Cameroon, their innovation capital and addressing the gender gap, the United Nations Population Fund in Cameroon, in partnership with the Ernesto Illy Foundation in Italy, is launching a call for applications to select one female candidate to benefit from a scholarship to participate in the 14th edition of the International First Level Master Program in Coffee Economics and Science Ernesto Illy, a collaboration between the University of Udine and the University of Trieste, of a value of 60 CFU, for the academic year 2024-2025,

The Ernesto Illy Foundation offers annual financial aid to worthy graduates coming from coffee producing countries to cover the Master tuition fee and most of the logistics costs. Cameroon is the seventh largest coffee producer in quantity of unique Robusta and Arabica coffee quality.

Requirements

The application is open to Cameroonian women graduates interested in working in the world of coffee (and in the agri-food sector in general) with a view to benefiting from appropriate multidisciplinary preparation throughout the production chain, from cultivation to hotel and retail sales, via logistics, trade and the industrial process.

This master’s degree includes 400 hours of lessons and includes 9 educational modules: 5 modules are dedicated to coffee economics and 4 modules to the coffee sciences. The Master that will have the majority of lessons taking place online, gives the participants 60 formative university credits A description of the master’s program is attached.

The course curriculum, to be given entirely in English, is open only to University Graduates (bachelor’s) in Economics, Engineering, Sciences, Agriculture and similar disciplines.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for this scholarship, candidates must meet the following conditions:

Being a woman

Being of Cameroonian nationality or a Refugee living in Cameroon for the last 3 years

Being younger than 24 years old;

Hold at least a bachelor’s degree in economics, engineering, science, agriculture, or any other similar/related discipline;

Not have previously received this scholarship;

Being enrolled in a Cameroonian

university in a course closely related to the programme.

Scholarship Worth

The scholarship includes:

100% of the university tuition fee (equivalent to 15.000 Euro) of the International Master of 1st level in Coffee Economics and Science “Ernesto Illy”

All the teaching materials (texts books, handouts and lecture notes) needed to attend the residential period of the Master program in Trieste, Italy (4/5 weeks);

All meals provided during the days of class of the Master program in Italy;

Accommodations for the residential period in Italy;

The round-trip ticket from the country of origin to Trieste, Italy;

A subscription for the public transport network of Trieste, Italy (bus) for the residential period;

The transfer service from and to Venice or Trieste Airport.

The scholarship does not include eventual passport and Visa fees, any administrative costs not mentioned, nor a laptop and internet access to attend online lessons as well as pocket-money for staying in Italy.

Application Procedure:

The application must include the following documents:

A copy of the student’s valid passport et/ou and identity card (the passport will be necessary once the master starts) 

A Cover and Motivation Letter

an up-to-date Curriculum Vitae in the European format (available here)

A copy of the student card or receipts and registration form for the current year

A letter of recommendation from a teacher in the course of study (University , head of department, etc);

A summary (1 page) of an initial idea of the final Project Work

APPLY HERE

2024 GOOGLE FOR STARTUPS ACCELERATOR: AI FIRST FOR MENA STARTUPS.

Application Deadline: August 18, 2024

Applications are now open for the 2024 Google for Startups Accelerator: Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First is a 10-week, equity-free hybrid program for Seed to Series A, AI First startups. In partnership with Google Cloud, the AI First program helps high-potential startups based in MENA and Turkey grow with the best of Google through a mix of in-person and virtual activities, 1:1 mentoring, and group learning sessions.

In addition to mentorship and technical project support, the Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First program features deep dives and workshops focused on product design, business growth, and leadership development. Selected startups will also benefit from dedicated Google AI technical expertise and receive credits via the Google for Startups Cloud Program.

Requirements

Startups demonstrating traction, ideally between Seed and Series A stage

Building a scalable product or service with a significant total addressable market and defensible growth model

Deeply technical, preferably leveraging technologies like machine learning and AI

Commitment from CTO and/or technical roles to participate and engage in required program sessions

Benefits

Equity-free support: Equity-free support: For duration of program.

Mentoring: Dedicated mentoring from Google teams.

Training: Exclusive invitations to technical bootcamps hosted by Google where offered.

Access to experts: Access to Google’s network of industry experts.

Google product credits: Eligible startups receive product credits.

Early access: Access to new Google products and tools as relevant.

Strategic support: Support on company and product strategy.

Technical project partnership: Work hand in hand with experts from Google on your biggest tech challenges

APPLY HERE

ROYAL ACADEMY OF ENGINEERING AFRICA PRIZE FOR ENGINEERING INNOVATION 2025 IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA (£25,000 PRIZE)

Application Deadline: 15 October, 2024

Applications are now open for the 2025 Royal Academy of Engineering Africa Prize for Engineering Innovation. The Africa Prize is looking for engineers and entrepreneurs who have developed, or are in the process of developing, a new technological innovation. Applicants should have the ambition to take a leading role in creating a new business to commercialise this innovation. Innovations must aim to promote the welfare and economic development of a country or countries in sub–Saharan Africa and be designed to address a development need or specific challenge facing that country.

Applicants should be in the early stages of commercialising an engineering innovation that:

is accompanied by an ambitious but realistic business plan that has strong commercial viability

has strong potential to be replicated and scaled up

will bring social and/or environmental benefits to a country or countries in sub-Saharan Africa

is based in, and will benefit, a country in sub-Saharan Africa.

The innovation can be any new product, technology or service, based on research in any field of engineering, including:

agricultural technology

biotechnology

chemical engineering

civil engineering

computer science

design engineering

electrical and electronic engineering

materials science

mechanical engineering

medical engineering.

Eligibility Requirements

The application must be written in English.

The applicant must have a high level of English language proficiency in order to participate fully in the programme as this is conducted entirely in English. 

The lead applicant must be over the age of 18 when applications close on 25 July 2023. There is no upper age limit.

Previous shortlist members or winners are not eligible to participate in the programme again, nor is anyone who was involved in their team or innovation.

Applicants can apply as an individual or as part of a team.

The lead applicant must be a citizen of a country in sub-Saharan Africa*. For teams of two or more, the lead applicant (the person participating in training) must be a citizen of a country in sub-Saharan Africa*.

The lead applicant must be ordinarily based in sub-Saharan Africa*; if based overseas, this must be temporary for studies or otherwise.

The innovation must be based in a country in sub-Saharan Africa*.

The lead applicant must have an engineering innovation, although they are not required to be an engineering graduate or student to apply.

Benefits

The Africa Prize offers a unique benefits package for up to 16 shortlisted participants to help accelerate their business including: 

Access to business and technical expertise and sector specific engineering mentoring.

Bespoke press coverage and communications support.

Eight month tailored training programme.

Access to the Academy’s network of high profile engineers and business experts in the UK and Africa.

The opportunity for finalists to present their innovation to a judging panel at the Africa Prize showcase event.

Prize money of up to £25,000.

APPLY HERE

Article: Celebrating African Child Day: Empowering the Future Generation

Introduction:

Every year on June 16th, the African continent comes together to celebrate African Child Day. This special day serves as a reminder of the resilience, strength, and potential of African children, while also shedding light on the challenges they face. African Child Day is an occasion to advocate for the rights of children and to work towards creating a brighter future for them. In this article, we will explore the significance of African Child Day and the efforts being made to empower the next generation.

Recognizing the Challenges:

African Child Day brings attention to the numerous obstacles that African children encounter in their daily lives. Poverty, lack of access to quality education, limited healthcare facilities, child labor, and child marriage are just a few of the challenges that many children face across the continent. By acknowledging these issues, African Child Day aims to mobilize communities, governments, and organizations to take action and address these pressing concerns.

Education as a Key Priority:

One of the primary focuses of African Child Day is the importance of education. Quality education is a fundamental right of every child, yet many African children are denied this opportunity. African Child Day serves as a platform to advocate for inclusive and accessible education for all children. Efforts are being made to improve infrastructure, provide resources, and train teachers to ensure that African children receive a quality education that equips them with the necessary skills for a brighter future.

Protection from Exploitation:

Child labor and child marriage are grave concerns that threaten the well-being and future of African children. African Child Day aims to raise awareness about these issues and advocate for stronger measures to protect children from exploitation. Through campaigns, workshops, and community engagement, efforts are being made to eradicate child labor and promote the rights of children to grow up in a safe and nurturing environment.

Healthcare and Well-being:

Access to healthcare is another critical aspect of African Child Day. Many children across the continent lack proper healthcare services, leading to preventable illnesses and even loss of lives. African Child Day seeks to promote healthcare initiatives to ensure that children receive proper medical attention and have access to clean water, nutrition, and vaccinations. By prioritizing the health and well-being of African children, we can create a stronger and healthier future generation.

Empowering African Children:

African Child Day is not just about recognizing problems; it is also about championing the dreams, potential, and rights of African children. It is a day to celebrate their achievements and highlight their talents and creativity. By empowering African children through education, healthcare, and protection, we can unlock their full potential and contribute to the development of a thriving continent.

Conclusion:

African Child Day is a significant event that calls for collective action to address the challenges faced by African children. It serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting children's rights, providing them with quality education, healthcare, and a safe environment to grow and thrive. By investing in the well-being and future of African children, we lay the foundation for a prosperous and inclusive continent. Let us celebrate African Child Day and work together to empower the next generation, ensuring a brighter tomorrow for all.

Written By: Dalphin Alexander 

UBA GROUP GRADUATE MANAGEMENT ACCELERATED PROGRAMME (GMAP) 2024 FOR YOUNG NIGERIAN GRADUATES

Application Deadline: 17th June 2024.

Applications are now open for the 2024 UBA Group Graduate Management Accelerated Programme. UBA Group is searching for vibrant and young graduates passionate about selling and delivering exceptional customer service at any scale. Are you a young graduate, vibrant and passionate about selling and delivering exceptional Customer Service at any scale? UBA has exciting career opportunities with extensive growth potential. Join a supportive, innovative, and dynamic work environment where you can flourish in Sales, Manage UBA branches and Drive growth.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in any field (Minimum 2nd class lower).

Must have completed NYSC or Exemption Certificate.

Must not be more than 27 years by October 2024

Work experience: 0 – 2 years.

Skills: Strong communication, problem – solving abilities, and a willingness to learn.

Benefits

Comprehensive Training: Get hands-on experience and professional development.

Career Growth: Clear pathways for advancement and opportunities to learn new skills.

Competitive Salary: Attractive entry-level salary.

APPLY HERE

CANON COLLINS RMTF SCHOLARSHIPS 2025 FOR POSTGRADUATE STUDY IN SOUTH AFRICA (FULLY FUNDED)

Application Deadline: 22 July, 2024

Applications are now open for the 2025 Canon Collins RMTF Scholarships. Canon Collins Trust in partnership with Ros Moger and Terry Furlong group invite applications for the postgraduate study in South Africa 2025.

Canon Collins Trust in partnership with RMTF seek to support exceptional individuals who are committed to social justice in southern Africa and for whom a postgraduate qualification is an essential tool in working to create an open and just society.

In 2025, we will be making awards only to those studying in three areas:

1. Justice, which includes Climate Justice, Law, Economics and Politics

2. Education policy and practice

3. Humanities, which includes Literature, History, Anthropology and the Arts

Please only apply if your programme of study falls into one of these disciplines.

Eligibility Requirements

In addition, to be considered for a scholarship under this programme you must:

be a national of, or have refugee status in, one of the following countries: Angola, Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Swaziland, Zambia

be normally resident in one of the above countries

be in possession of a good first degree (minimum second class, upper division or equivalent) or about to graduate in the year of application

be studying or applying to study at a South African university

Benefits

Canon Collins RMTF will provide funding for up to a maximum of two years for Masters and three years for PhD. The value of the scholarship package will range from R20,000 to R100,000 depending on student circumstances. We support both full and part-time study and will consider applications from those who wish to study by distance learning.

Canon Collins RMTF also organise an annual conference for current scholars, and hold several smaller events throughout the year. Scholarship holders are expected to participate in these activities and to become part of and contribute to our network.

How to apply

Applications are now open. Best of luck! Please follow us on social media @canoncollinstrust and subscribe to the Scholarship Alert for helpful guides to hack your application.

Please get your application in as soon as possible as late applications will not be considered.

Your deadline is 22 July 4pm SAST.

APPLY HERE

CALL FOR READERS FOR THE YALI MANDELA WASHINGTON FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM 2025

Application Deadline: September 1st, 

2024

The U.S. Department of State and IREX are seeking academic, professional, and regional experts to read and score applications for the 2025 Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders. Over the first nine years of the Fellowship, the program received nearly 434,000 applications from 49 sub-Saharan African countries for 7,200 Fellow slots. Your talents and expertise in helping score our high volume of applications are greatly appreciated!

The Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders is the flagship program of the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI). The Fellowship brings young leaders to the United States for academic coursework and leadership training to create unique opportunities for Fellows and U.S. citizens to collaborate, spur economic growth and prosperity, strengthen democratic governance, and enhance peace and security across Africa and the United States. In summer 2025, the Fellowship will bring up to 700 young leaders to the United States for a comprehensive executive-stye program designed to build skills and empower

Fellows to lead in their respective sectors and communities. 

Eligibility

Ideal readers are academics and/or professionals with expertise in one or more of the Fellowship’s thematic areas (business, civic engagement, or public management), or who have experience working in Africa or on sub-Saharan African issues. 

U.S. Government employees and Fellowship Alumni are eligible.  

Applicants for the 2024 Fellowship are not eligible to be readers.

Responsibility

Readers will be responsible for evaluating approximately 50 applications based on set guidelines and a scoring rubric. This is a great volunteer professional development and résumé-building opportunity for professionals or degree-seeking individuals. Readers will gain exposure to challenges and proposed solutions in sub-Saharan Africa and to key processes in international and higher education.  

Interested applicants may apply by completing the Reader Application form by September 1, 2024. The reading period will begin in mid-September and last until early November 2024. Each application takes about 5-10 minutes to read. We will reach out to selected Readers in September 2024.    

APPLY HERE

JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT NIGERIA VENTURE IN MANAGEMENT PROGRAM 2024 (ALL EXPENSES PAID BUSINESS MANAGEMENT PROGRAM).

Application Deadline: Unspecified

Applications are now open for the 2024 Junior Achievement Nigeria Venture in Management Program. The Venture in Management Program (ViMP) is an annual week-long intensive program designed by JA Nigeria in partnership with Lagos Business School (LBS) to prepare selected members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and recent graduates of not more than 27 years for the workforce while introducing them to the different facets of managing a business, making crucial business decisions and developing skills for General Management.

Applications are encouraged from recent graduates who are entrepreneurs, business owners or aspiring entrepreneurs in diverse focus areas. 

Eligibility Criteria: 

Aspiring ViMP fellow must be between 18 and 27.

Aspiring fellow must be a Nigerian.

Aspiring fellows must be recent graduate or currently participating in the NYSC.

Aspiring fellows must a significant and measurable positive impact in the communities .

Aspiring fellows must demonstrate leadership .

Aspiring fellows must be able to commit their time to participate fully in the fellowship; 100% attendance, mentorship sessions, assignments, CSR project and other activities.

Selection Criteria

Kindly note that all applications will go through a rigorous screen process after which the top 100 candidates will be selected. 

APPLY HERE

WEBSITE

Call for International Bursary for Film & TV Postgraduate Studies – South Africa

Deadline: 31 July 2024

The National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) bursary programme is aimed at building capacity by upskilling film & TV professionals for global competitiveness through its support of qualifying applicants for overseas studies which are not offered in South African tertiary institutions.

The National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF), an agency of the Department of Arts and Culture, was mandated to ensure the equitable growth of the South African film and video industry. The NFVF does this by providing funding for the development, production, marketing and distribution of films and also the training and development of filmmakers.

In addition, the NFVF commissions research and produces industry statistics that provide both the public and stakeholders with valuable insights into the South African film industry.

Funding Information

The bursary will be awarded for the 2025 academic year and will be capped at R280 000 inclusive of tuition and living expenses.

Eligibility Criteria

The applicant must:

Must apply six months before the course starts.

Be a South African citizen or permanent SA resident.

Have a good academic record.

Demonstrate a need for financial assistance;

Enrolled at an accredited overseas tertiary institution for full-time studies; post-graduate film/TV programme (course must commence in January 2025).

Funding will only be granted to courses that are not available in South Africa.

Live Performance or Acting courses do not qualify for this grant funding.

APPLY HERE