Deadline: March 10, 2026
Applications are now open for the Feeding the Next Billion Food Innovation Fellowship 2026 — a transformative five-day residential programme dedicated to empowering young Nigerian innovators in the vital area of food value addition.
Organised by Farm Central Intelligence (FarmCI), with support from UNESCO and Nestlé through the Because You Matter programme, and with technical expertise from Soilless Farm Lab, this fellowship addresses the pressing issues of food waste and youth unemployment in Nigeria.
About the Feeding the Next Billion Food Innovation Fellowship 2026
This initiative focuses on practical, hands-on learning experiences that enable participants to transform raw agricultural produce such as vegetables, spices, and peppers into high-value, market-ready products.
The curriculum is carefully designed to provide fellows with skills in processing, preservation, packaging, branding, and business management, while nurturing an entrepreneurial mindset and promoting sustainable practices to strengthen food security.
The fellowship aims to create a new generation of food entrepreneurs capable of driving economic growth, reducing post-harvest losses, and building resilient food systems within their communities.
Programme Benefits
Successful fellows will receive a comprehensive package of support to aid their learning and entrepreneurial journey:
- Fully Sponsored Residential Training: All expenses for the five-day residential programme — accommodation, meals, and materials — will be covered.
- Transportation Support: Financial assistance for transportation to and from the training venue in Ogun State.
- Hands-on Training and Mentorship: Guidance from expert trainers and mentors at FarmCI and Soilless Farm Lab.
- Starter Kit: Each fellow receives a personalised kit containing essential tools and materials to begin their food value-addition business.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with peers, industry experts, and programme partners to build collaborations.
- Certificate of Completion: Official recognition upon successful completion of the fellowship.
- Post-Programme Support: Continued access to mentorship and business growth resources.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Must be a youth or individual from Lagos, Ogun, or Oyo States.
- Must be aged between 18 and 35 years.
- Females are strongly encouraged to apply.
Application Details
- Application Deadline: March 10, 2026
- Programme Type: Five-day fully residential fellowship
- Location: Ogun State, Nigeria
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply early to secure a place in this competitive fellowship.
👉 Read More About the Programme
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