Youth Empowerment Nigeria (YEN) is inviting applications from interested and business-minded individuals for its ongoing Petty Traders Grant Support Programme. This empowerment initiative is specially designed to support individuals who are either starting or planning to start small-scale businesses involving the buying and selling of goods or services but lack the initial capital required. The goal of the programme is to help reduce unemployment, foster entrepreneurship, and strengthen grassroots commerce across Nigeria by providing direct financial assistance to petty traders and startup owners.
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Under this scheme, selected candidates will receive financial support ranging from ₦10,000 to ₦100,000, depending on the needs and scale of the applicant’s business idea or existing venture. The grant is intended to provide a significant boost for entrepreneurs who are passionate about growing their businesses but are limited by lack of funding. The YEN programme prioritizes financial inclusion for low-income earners, especially in local communities where formal financial support is often inaccessible.
Requirements for Eligibility
To qualify for the YEN Petty Traders Grant, applicants must meet a set of specific criteria that demonstrate their readiness and seriousness toward entrepreneurship. First, the age of applicants must fall within the range of 18 to 55 years. This age range ensures that the scheme targets active, economically viable individuals.
Candidates must either own a business or have a viable business initiative they wish to pursue. The programme is open to both existing entrepreneurs and those who are aspiring to become entrepreneurs but need financial support to begin their journey. A valid means of identification is required, which may include a Voter’s Card, National ID Card, Driver’s License, or International Passport. This helps to verify the identity and legitimacy of applicants.
In addition, each applicant must provide the contact details of one reference person, preferably someone who can be reached for verification purposes. A verifiable residential address is also mandatory, along with a valid bank account number through which the grant will be disbursed. Most importantly, the applicant must be a resident of Nigeria and must complete the application form accurately and truthfully to be considered for the grant.
Important Dates to Remember
The registration and application process for the YEN Petty Traders Grant Support Programme officially commenced on 1st June 2025. Applicants are advised to complete and submit their applications as early as possible to allow enough time for review and processing.
The application deadline is set for 31st August 2025, after which no further submissions will be accepted. Applicants are encouraged not to wait until the last minute, as early submission may improve chances of selection and faster processing.
All grant disbursements will be completed on or before 30th September 2025. Successful applicants will be notified via the contact details provided in their application forms and are expected to ensure their bank details are correct and accessible to receive the funds.
Important Note
It is crucial for all applicants to understand that the YEN Petty Traders Grant Support Programme is not a loan scheme. This means recipients are not expected to repay the funds. The grant is a non-repayable financial support provided by Youth Empowerment Nigeria to assist entrepreneurs in building sustainable businesses and achieving economic independence.
Applicants should beware of fraudulent platforms or individuals requesting payment or documentation not listed on the official website. The only official application portal for the programme is provided below.
Petty Traders Grant Application Portal
Interested applicants can access the official application form and further details of the grant via the link below:
https://www.youthempowermentnigeria.org/index.php/petty-traders-grant-support-programme/petty-traders-grant-support-programme-form
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