Young business owners across Southeast Nigeria now have another opportunity to access funding, business training, and media exposure through the SouthEast Business Growth Fund 2026.
The initiative, powered by the Ike-Elechi Ogba Foundation, is designed to support entrepreneurs who are building active and sustainable businesses in the region but need financial support and visibility to grow further.
For the 2026 edition, five selected entrepreneurs will each receive a ₦500,000 business grant alongside ₦1 million worth of advertising credit on AfiaTV, valid for one year. Beneficiaries will also participate in a fully funded two-week business growth training programme in Enugu State.
Applications are currently open and interested entrepreneurs are encouraged to apply before the deadline.
What Is the SouthEast Business Growth Fund?
The SouthEast Business Growth Fund is an entrepreneurship support programme created to help promising business owners across Southeast Nigeria scale their businesses through funding, mentorship, training, and public exposure.
Unlike many grant programmes that only provide money, this initiative combines financial support with practical business development opportunities. Selected entrepreneurs will gain access to training sessions, networking opportunities, mentorship, and media visibility that can help strengthen their businesses long after the grant has been disbursed.
The programme also aims to encourage innovation, job creation, and economic growth within the Southeast region.
Benefits of the SouthEast Business Growth Fund 2026
Selected applicants will receive several business support opportunities, including:
- ₦500,000 business grant for each of the five selected entrepreneurs
- ₦1 million advertising credit on AfiaTV valid for one year
- Fully funded two-week business growth training programme in Enugu
- Free accommodation and feeding during the training period
- Opportunity to pitch business ideas live at the SouthEast Business Growth Conference in July 2026
- Exposure to investors, business leaders, and industry stakeholders
- Increased visibility for participating businesses
- Access to mentorship and future partnership opportunities
For many small business owners, visibility and access to the right network can be just as important as funding. This programme attempts to provide both.
Why the Fund Was Created
Many entrepreneurs in Southeast Nigeria operate profitable and innovative businesses but struggle with limited access to funding, business support systems, and media visibility.
The SouthEast Business Growth Fund was introduced to bridge this gap by helping entrepreneurs gain the financial backing and exposure needed to expand their operations.
According to the organisers, the programme focuses on supporting entrepreneurs who are already making meaningful contributions to economic development within the Southeast region.
2025 Programme Impact
The previous edition of the programme recorded notable results across the region.
According to information released by the organisers:
- Over ₦3.15 million was disbursed in total support
- 10 finalists were selected from different Southeast states
- 5 entrepreneurs received ₦500,000 grants each
- Additional support opportunities were unlocked through sponsors and partners
Beyond the funding itself, several participants reportedly gained new business connections, increased visibility, and more confidence in scaling their businesses.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for the SouthEast Business Growth Fund 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Applicants must be between 18 and 35 years old
- The business must be registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC)
- The business should have been actively operating for at least 1–2 years
- Applicants must provide evidence of business revenue or traction
- The business must be located in one of the Southeast states:
- Abia
- Anambra
- Ebonyi
- Enugu
- Imo
- Applicants should demonstrate business traction such as sales, customer base, or partnerships
- A 2-minute video explaining how the ₦500,000 grant will help grow the business must be submitted
- Proof of business location such as a utility bill or lease agreement is required
Only applicants who meet all eligibility requirements are expected to move to the next stage of the selection process.
How to Apply for the SouthEast Business Growth Fund 2026
If you meet the eligibility requirements, follow the steps below to submit your application successfully.
Step 1: Prepare Your Business Documents
Before starting your application, make sure you have the following ready:
- CAC registration certificate
- Proof of business location (utility bill or lease agreement)
- Evidence of business activity or revenue
- Business social media pages or website (if available)
Having these documents ready will make the application process easier.
Step 2: Record Your 2-Minute Video
Applicants are required to submit a short video explaining:
- What your business does
- The problem your business solves
- Your achievements so far
- How the ₦500,000 grant will help your business grow
Tips for the Video
- Speak clearly and confidently
- Use good lighting if possible
- Keep the video short and direct
- Avoid background noise
- Focus on your business growth story
Your video does not need professional editing. Simple and clear videos are usually acceptable.
Step 3: Complete the Online Application Form
Visit the official application portal and fill in your details carefully.
You may be required to provide:
- Personal information
- Business details
- CAC registration information
- Contact details
- Business growth plans
- Upload supporting documents and your video
Double-check all information before submitting.
Step 4: Submit Before the Deadline
The deadline for application is:
June 7, 2026
Late applications may not be considered, so it is advisable to apply early.
Step 5: Wait for Shortlisting
After submission, shortlisted applicants may be contacted for further screening or selection stages.
Successful finalists will:
- Attend the business training programme in Enugu
- Participate in the live business pitch event
- Compete for the final grant selection
Important Deadline
The application deadline for the SouthEast Business Growth Fund 2026 is:
June 7, 2026
Interested entrepreneurs are advised to complete their applications early to avoid last-minute issues.
How to Improve Your Chances of Selection
If you plan to apply, here are a few practical tips that may improve your application:
1. Explain Your Business Clearly
Avoid complicated explanations. Clearly describe what your business does, who your customers are, and the problem your business solves.
2. Show Evidence of Growth
Provide proof that your business is active. Sales records, customer feedback, social media activity, or partnership evidence can strengthen your application.
3. Make Your Video Simple and Direct
Your 2-minute video should explain:
- What your business does
- Your achievements so far
- Challenges you are facing
- How the ₦500,000 grant will help your business grow
You do not need expensive equipment. Clear audio and honest explanations matter more.
4. Be Honest in Your Application
Avoid exaggerating figures or business performance. Programmes like this often verify submitted information.
APPLICATION LINK : https://www.ikeelechiogbafoundation.org/
Final Thoughts
The SouthEast Business Growth Fund 2026 presents a valuable opportunity for young entrepreneurs who are serious about growing their businesses.
With funding, training, mentorship, and media exposure included, the programme goes beyond traditional grant support and focuses on long-term business development.
Entrepreneurs across Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo who meet the eligibility requirements should consider applying before the June 7, 2026 deadline.
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