Applications are officially open for the 2026 SouthEast Business Growth Fund organised by the Ike-Elechi Ogba Foundation, an entrepreneurship support initiative designed to empower young business owners across Southeast Nigeria.
The programme aims to support promising entrepreneurs with funding, business development training, mentorship, networking opportunities, and increased visibility to help their businesses scale sustainably.
According to the organisers, selected entrepreneurs will participate in a fully funded business growth programme while also receiving direct financial support and media exposure for their businesses. The initiative is one of the Foundation’s major entrepreneurship development programmes focused on strengthening small businesses and promoting economic growth within the Southeast region.
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About the SouthEast Business Growth Fund
The SouthEast Business Growth Fund was created to address the challenges many young entrepreneurs face, particularly limited access to funding, business exposure, mentorship, and growth opportunities.
Rather than providing grants alone, the programme combines financial support with practical business training, networking, and visibility opportunities designed to help businesses grow beyond the startup stage.
The organisers explained that the programme targets entrepreneurs who already operate active businesses and are looking for opportunities to expand operations, improve sustainability, and increase market reach.
Benefits of the SouthEast Business Growth Fund 2026
Selected entrepreneurs will receive several valuable business support opportunities.
These include
- ₦500,000 Business Grant
- ₦1,000,000 AfiaTV Advertising Credit
- Fully Funded Business Growth Training
- Free Accommodation and Feeding\
- Opportunity to Pitch at Business Conference\
- Access to Business Leaders and Mentors
Participants will connect with:
- Business leaders
- Industry stakeholders
- Investors
- Decision-makers
- Potential partners
- Increased Business Visibility
Businesses selected for the programme will gain exposure and recognition across the Southeast entrepreneurship ecosystem.
According to the organisers, only five entrepreneurs will be selected for the 2026 edition.
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Eligibility Requirements
Interested applicants must meet the following conditions before applying:
- Applicants must be between 18 and 35 years old
- Business must be registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC)
- Business must have operated actively for at least 1–2 years
- Applicants must show evidence of revenue generation
- Business must be located in Southeast Nigeria
Eligible states include:
- Abia
- Anambra
- Ebonyi
- Enugu
- Imo
Applicants must also demonstrate:
- Existing customers
- Sales traction
- Partnerships or market presence
Additionally, applicants are required to submit:
- A 2-minute video explaining how the ₦500,000 grant will help grow the business
- Proof of business location such as utility bill or lease agreement
Only applicants who meet all listed requirements will be considered.
Application Deadline
June 7, 2026
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How to Apply for SouthEast Business Growth Fund 2026
Interested entrepreneurs can follow these steps to apply successfully:
Step 1: Prepare Required Documents
Before applying, ensure you have:
- CAC registration documents
- Proof of business location
- Evidence of business activity or revenue
- Your 2-minute business growth video
Step 2: Visit the Official Application Portal
Apply through the SouthEast Business Growth Fund 2026 official application portal via doc.google.com.
Step 3: Complete the Application Form
Fill in your:
- Personal information
- Business details
- Contact information
- Business growth explanation
Step 4: Upload Required Materials
Upload all requested documents and your business growth video carefully.
Step 5: Submit Your Application
Review your application thoroughly before final submission. Applicants are advised to submit their applications early to avoid last-minute issues.
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The SouthEast Business Growth Fund 2026 presents a valuable opportunity for young entrepreneurs in Southeast Nigeria to access funding, business training, mentorship, and growth exposure.
With direct grants, advertising support, and networking opportunities available, the initiative could help selected businesses strengthen operations and scale sustainably. Eligible entrepreneurs are encouraged to prepare their application materials carefully and apply before the deadline.
You can also visit Dailylight Channel Graduate Jobs Section, Internship Program, Recruitment Exercises, and Job and Career Opportunity Desk Section to explore and discover opportunities you are qualified to apply for.
