Apply to the RISE Smart Incentives Programme

Opportunity for Agripreneurs: RISE Smart Incentives Programme (Bauchi, Kaduna & Kano)

Women and youth agripreneurs in Northern Nigeria now have an opportunity to access business support and funding through the RISE (Resilient and Inclusive Agrifood Systems Empowering Women and Youth in Nigeria) programme. This initiative, implemented by organizations such as MEDA and Sahel Consulting, is designed to strengthen agribusinesses and promote inclusive economic growth.

Programme Overview

The RISE programme provides Business Development Services (BDS) alongside non-repayable smart incentives to eligible Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). It specifically targets agripreneurs working within key value chains, including:

• Rice
• Maize
• Soybean
• Groundnut

The programme focuses on improving productivity, encouraging climate-smart agriculture, and promoting gender inclusion across agribusiness operations.

Target Locations

This opportunity is open to agripreneurs operating in:

• Bauchi State
• Kaduna State
• Kano State

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify, applicants must:

• Be a registered business or cooperative
• Have a minimum of 2 years of operation
• Employ at least 2 staff members
• Demonstrate commitment to climate-smart practices and gender inclusion

The programme is open to:

• Women-owned or women-led MSMEs
• Youth-owned or youth-led MSMEs
• Male-owned businesses that have at least 30% female staff or leadership, or directly serve women and youth

Smart Incentive Opportunities

Eligible MSMEs may benefit from one of two funding categories:

• Matching Award: Covers up to 50% of investment costs, with the business contributing the remaining 50% (cash or assets). This applies to enterprises involved in agro-processing, aggregation, technology supply, and distribution.
• Circular Economy Award: A non-repayable, performance-based incentive for businesses focused on low-emission technologies, waste recycling, and climate-smart processing.

Application Details

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and early submission is strongly encouraged.

Apply for RISE Smart Incentives Programme

Note: Submission of an Expression of Interest does not guarantee selection for funding.

This programme presents a valuable opportunity for agripreneurs to scale operations, adopt sustainable practices, and access financial support within Nigeria’s growing agribusiness sector.