The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) 2025 Innovation Call for Green Business SMEs in Borno State is an exciting funding opportunity for environmentally focused entrepreneurs working to create sustainable change in northeastern Nigeria. If you are a small or medium-sized enterprise (SME) in the green sector, this is your chance to access financial support, mentorship, and business visibility through a prestigious international platform.
This blog provides all the essential details about eligibility, benefits, and how to apply. You’ll also find expert tips from Grant Database on how to create a winning proposal and why early preparation is crucial for success.
Overview of the NRC 2025 Innovation Call
The NRC 2025 Innovation Call for Green Business SMEs in Borno State is part of NRC’s commitment to foster inclusive green entrepreneurship in regions affected by displacement and conflict. The initiative aims to support SMEs with viable green business solutions that promote environmental protection, economic growth, and social inclusion.
Key Objectives:
- Promote green entrepreneurship and sustainable business practices.
- Provide financial support, mentorship, and networking for selected SMEs.
- Foster inclusive, gender-transformative innovation within vulnerable communities.
- Support climate-friendly solutions in conflict-affected areas like Borno State.
Focus Areas
Applicants are expected to operate in one or more of the following sectors:
- Green Agriculture: Agroecology, climate-smart farming, organic production, etc.
- Green Energy: Renewable energy (solar, biogas), energy-efficient technologies.
- Green Waste Management: Recycling, upcycling, composting, waste-to-energy innovations.
Target Location
- Maiduguri Metropolitan Council (MMC)
- Jere Local Government Area, Borno State, Nigeria
Applicants must be registered or operating within these areas.
What’s on Offer?
Selected SMEs will benefit from:
- Financial support to start or scale green businesses.
- Mentorship and capacity building by industry experts.
- Business visibility through NRC and partner platforms.
- Networking opportunities to collaborate and expand impact.
Only three (3) SMEs will be selected, so strong, compelling applications are essential.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, you must:
- Be a registered or informal SME working in the green economy.
- Operate within MMC or Jere LGA of Borno State.
- Have a social impact focus, preferably involving vulnerable or displaced populations.
- Be committed to gender-sensitive and inclusive business models.
Deadline for Application
- Application Deadline: June 12, 2025
Early submission is strongly encouraged to allow for review and feedback.
How to Apply
Full details, application guidelines, and submission links are available on the official NRC tender page here.
Applicants are required to complete a detailed proposal and submit all required documentation as outlined in the Terms of Reference PDF.
💡 Expert Opinion from Grant Database
According to Grant Database’s lead proposal strategist, this call offers a rare opportunity to blend sustainability with social enterprise in an underfunded region:
“To maximize your chances, focus on measurable environmental impact, clear business models, and alignment with NRC’s values of inclusion and resilience. Avoid buzzwords—use data and real-world outcomes to back your ideas. A community-driven, gender-inclusive plan stands out.”
Need Help With Your Proposal?
Contact grantsdatabase.org for proposal drafting, refining, and review. Our expert team can help you:
- Align your concept with NRC’s funding priorities.
- Improve structure, clarity, and persuasiveness.
- Avoid common mistakes and enhance your application’s competitiveness.
Final Thoughts
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) 2025 Innovation Call for Green Business SMEs in Borno State is a unique funding opportunity that aligns sustainable entrepreneurship with humanitarian impact. If you operate a green SME and want to grow your business while contributing to resilience and recovery in Borno State, this call is for you.
Act fast. Prepare well. Let your green business idea drive sustainable change!
