The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced the opening of applications for over ₦1 billion in grants under the 2026 National MSME Awards, aimed at boosting micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) nationwide. The application portal is scheduled to open on April 7 and close on May 7, the Senior Special Adviser to the President on Job Creation and MSMEs, Temitola Adekunle‑Johnson, said at a media briefing in Abuja on Tuesday.
Tagged “Renewed Hope for MSMEs,” this year’s awards shift focus from physical prizes — such as cars and houses in previous editions — to direct financial support, designed to help businesses expand and become more sustainable. Adekunle‑Johnson said the initiative will prioritise grant funding that meets the immediate needs of businesses rather than rewards that lack direct impact on growth.
The presidential aide said that, with support from government partners, grant awards could total up to about ₦1 billion across different categories. He added that more beneficiaries will receive awards beyond just the top three winners in each category, which include manufacturing, agriculture, textiles, creativity, innovation and beauty & wellness.
In addition to financial support, successful applicants will benefit from post‑award mentorship programmes coordinated by government agencies, as well as business advisory services and market access opportunities. Outstanding MSMEs may also be supported to participate in international exhibitions.
Adekunle‑Johnson urged serious applicants to ensure they submit quality applications, including clear video presentations of their business processes and all required documentation such as regulatory approvals and tax records. He said the selection process is designed to be transparent and merit‑based.
The grand finale of the awards will be held on June 27 in commemoration of United Nations World MSME Day, giving recognition to MSMEs that demonstrate innovation, creativity, employment generation and technological adoption.
