The Jerry Eze Foundation, one of Nigeria’s leading social impact organisations, announced a major private-sector initiative. In 2026, the foundation will launch a $300,000 (around ₦450 million) grant program to support 100 young Nigerian entrepreneurs with equity-free funds. This initiative focuses on investing in people rather than just giving donations.
Each of the 100 selected entrepreneurs will get $3,000 (over ₦4 million). The money will be allocated to three important sectors that can boost Nigeria’s GDP: Manufacturing, Agriculture, and Technology. The funds will be available in the 2026 fiscal year, helping new startups enter the market.
For young entrepreneurs in cities like Lagos or Aba, ₦4 million can help them grow their business. It can make the difference between creating a prototype and fulfilling a large order.
The Man Behind the Vision
Jerry Eze is well-known as the leader of NSPPD, the world’s largest online prayer platform. As he steps into 2026, he takes on a new role: President of the Jerry Eze Foundation and a social entrepreneur focused on building the economy. Eze’s shift from spiritual leadership to economic support shows he understands Nigeria’s young population. By leveraging his platform’s wide reach, he connects talented individuals with resources that are likely to spur job creation.
This is playing the part and being part of the big thing that God wants to do for His people this year. Eze said in the announcement.
In Nigeria, grant programs have often faced criticism for a lack of transparency in their selection of recipients. To address this issue, the Foundation has hired a reputable international consulting firm to handle the application, review, and selection process.
Those who doubt the Foundation’s ability to deliver on its promises can look at its recent financial records. The Foundation has pledged $300,000, building on a proven track record of successful projects, including the recent distribution of ₦100 million in small-business grants and the construction of 18 housing units for widows across Nigeria.
The 2026 program marks a new strategy. While the previous ₦100 million supported many businesses, the new $300,000 fund will focus on targeted investments that can create value chains.
The Economic Outlook
With inflation increasing business costs, injecting $300,000 into the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector will directly boost the economy. If each of the 100 beneficiaries employs just two additional people in a year, this initiative could create 300 new jobs.
This will also positively impact local supply chains in agriculture and manufacturing. As the application period nears, the message to Nigeria’s youth is clear: Funding is on the way. Are your business plans ready?
