BOI–MTN Foundation Yellopreneur Program 2026: Funding, Training & Mentorship for Women Entrepreneurs in Nigeria – Apply now

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Application Deadline: Unspecified

Applications are now open for the BOI–MTN Foundation Yellopreneur Program 2026, a transformative opportunity designed to empower women entrepreneurs across Nigeria with the tools, funding, and support needed to scale their businesses.

In a country where small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) drive economic growth but often struggle with access to capital and structured support, initiatives like Yellopreneur are more than just funding programs — they are catalysts for sustainable development. For women entrepreneurs in particular, the program addresses long-standing gaps in access to finance, training, and networks.

This initiative is a collaboration between the Bank of Industry (BOI) and the MTN Foundation, two major players committed to fostering inclusive economic growth. Together, they are equipping women-led businesses with the skills and resources required to thrive in Nigeria’s competitive business landscape.

If you are a female entrepreneur looking to grow, formalize, or scale your business, this program could be a game-changer.

About the BOI–MTN Foundation Yellopreneur Program

The Yellopreneur Program is a flagship women empowerment initiative aimed at building resilient, scalable, and investment-ready businesses across Nigeria. It goes beyond traditional training programs by combining capacity building, access to finance, and ongoing mentorship into a structured entrepreneurial journey.

The 2026 edition (Yellopreneur 3.0) introduces a ₦1 billion matching fund, significantly expanding access to affordable financing for women-led enterprises. This reflects a growing recognition that empowering women economically is key to reducing unemployment, strengthening households, and boosting national productivity.

The program follows a carefully designed structure that mirrors real-world business growth stages:

  • Training Phase: Participants undergo intensive entrepreneurship and business management training
  • Business Development: Entrepreneurs develop bankable and investor-ready business plans
  • Pitch Stage: Participants present their ideas and growth strategies
  • Funding Selection: Top-performing businesses receive financial support

Typically, about 1,000 women entrepreneurs are trained, with the most promising ventures selected for funding and further support.

Benefits of the Yellopreneur Program 2026

Selected participants gain access to a powerful combination of financial and non-financial support, including:

  • Comprehensive business training in entrepreneurship, finance, and operations
  • Access to loans of up to ₦5 million at single-digit interest rates
  • Grant opportunities, with partial loan conversion based on performance
  • Mentorship and advisory support from experienced professionals
  • Business plan development support to attract investors and funding
  • Access to networks and markets, opening doors to partnerships and growth

This holistic approach ensures that participants are not just funded but also equipped to build sustainable and scalable businesses.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the Yellopreneur Program 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • Be a female entrepreneur based in Nigeria
  • Own or run an existing business (typically at least 2 years old)
  • Operate in one of the following sectors:
    • Agriculture
    • Manufacturing
    • ICT and digital services
    • Processing
    • Circular economy or waste management
  • Demonstrate the use of locally sourced materials where possible
  • Show commitment to fully participate in all program phases (training, mentorship, and pitching)

This program is particularly suited for women who already have a running business and are ready to scale, formalize, or access structured funding.

Application Process & Key Details

Interested applicants can apply by following these steps:

  1. Visit the official MTN Foundation application portal
  2. Carefully review the eligibility requirements
  3. Complete the online application form with accurate business details
  4. Submit your application before the deadline

Note: Applicants are encouraged to apply early, as the selection process is competitive and may close once capacity is reached.

Why This Program Matters (And Why You Should Apply)

Across Africa, women entrepreneurs face disproportionate barriers when it comes to accessing finance, mentorship, and growth opportunities. According to global development insights, closing this gender gap could significantly boost economic productivity and reduce poverty levels.

The Yellopreneur Program stands out because it doesn’t just provide funding — it builds capacity and confidence. Many entrepreneurs fail not due to lack of ideas, but because they lack structured guidance, financial literacy, and access to the right networks.

Here’s why this opportunity is worth your attention:

  • It combines training + funding + mentorship — a rare and powerful mix
  • It focuses on real business growth, not just theoretical learning
  • It connects you to a network of entrepreneurs and industry experts
  • It helps make your business investment-ready and scalable

Tips for a Strong Application

To increase your chances of being selected, consider the following tips:

1. Clearly Define Your Business Value

Explain what problem your business solves and why it matters. Strong applications are impact-driven and solution-focused.

2. Show Growth Potential

Demonstrate how your business can scale. Include data, projections, or evidence of traction (sales, customers, partnerships).

3. Be Financially Clear

Outline how you plan to use the funding. Transparency and clarity build trust and show readiness.

4. Highlight Local Impact

Programs like this value businesses that contribute to local economies, especially through job creation or use of local materials.

5. Prepare for the Pitch Stage

Even at the application stage, think ahead. Be ready to communicate your business idea confidently and concisely.

Conclusion

The BOI–MTN Foundation Yellopreneur Program 2026 is more than just an entrepreneurship initiative — it is a pathway to growth, financial empowerment, and long-term business sustainability for women in Nigeria.

If you meet the eligibility criteria, don’t hesitate to apply. Opportunities like this can redefine your entrepreneurial journey, open new doors, and position your business for long-term success.

For more information and to apply, CLICK HERE

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