The Federal Government says applications for over ₦1 billion grants for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) will open on April 7 under the 2026 National MSME Awards.
The Senior Special Adviser to the President on Job Creation and MSMEs, Mr Temitola Adekunle-Johnson, disclosed this during a media briefing on Tuesday in Abuja.
Adekunle-Johnson said the application portal would remain open until May 7, urging MSMEs across the country to submit applications.
He explained that the 2026 edition, tagged “Renewed Hope for MSMEs,” would prioritise financial grants to support business growth.
According to him, the Federal Government, with support from development partners, plans to disburse up to ₦1 billion to deserving businesses.
“This year, we are focusing more on funding, giving grants that can directly support and grow MSME businesses.
“We are going to be spending, with the support of our partners, up to about one billion naira for these awards,” he said.
Adekunle-Johnson noted that the initiative marks a shift from previous editions that focused on awarding cars, houses and shops to winners.
He said the new approach would provide direct funding tailored to the immediate needs of MSMEs.
The presidential aide added that more beneficiaries would receive support beyond the top three winners in each category.
He said winners would also benefit from mentorship programmes coordinated by relevant government agencies.
According to him, the agencies would provide post-award support such as business advisory services, market access opportunities and participation in international exhibitions for outstanding businesses.
Adekunle-Johnson explained that the awards would recognise MSMEs that demonstrate innovation, creativity, employment generation and effective use of technology.
He acknowledged challenges with poor-quality applications in previous editions, noting that efforts were ongoing to improve awareness and encourage serious participation nationwide.
He assured applicants that the process would remain transparent and merit-based.
According to him, the grand finale of the awards will hold on June 27 to commemorate the United Nations World MSME Day.
Also speaking, a representative of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Mrs Sarah Ajayi, said about 12 categories would be featured, covering key sectors of the economy.
Ajayi listed the sectors to include manufacturing, agriculture, textiles, creativity, innovation, and beauty and wellness.
She urged applicants to ensure proper documentation, including regulatory approvals, tax records and relevant certifications.
According to her, participants must also submit quality video presentations showcasing their production processes and value addition.
Other stakeholders at the briefing pledged support for the initiative, assuring collaboration to ensure credible selection, regulatory compliance and post-award mentorship to enhance the growth and sustainability of MSMEs nationwide.
