Young Nigerian innovators passionate about food processing and agribusiness can now apply for the 2026 Feeding the Next Billion Food Innovation Fellowship, a fully sponsored 5-day residential program focused on food value addition.
🗓 Application Deadline: March 10, 2026
📍 Location: Ogun State, Nigeria
🏠 Format: 5-Day Fully Sponsored Residential Training
Organized by Farm Central Intelligence (FarmCI), supported by UNESCO and Nestlé through the “Because You Matter” Program, with technical expertise from Soilless Farm Lab, this fellowship addresses two urgent challenges in Nigeria:
- Food waste and post-harvest losses
- Youth unemployment
What Is the Feeding the Next Billion Fellowship?
The fellowship is a transformative 5-day intensive training designed to equip young Nigerians with practical skills to convert raw agricultural produce — especially vegetables, spices, and peppers — into high-value, market-ready products.
Participants receive hands-on instruction in:
- Food processing techniques
- Preservation methods
- Packaging and branding
- Basic business management
- Sustainable production practices
The goal is to help fellows build profitable food businesses while reducing post-harvest losses and strengthening Nigeria’s food security.
What You’ll Gain (Benefits)
Selected fellows receive a comprehensive support package:
✅ Fully Sponsored Residential Training
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Training materials
- All program costs covered
🚗 Transportation Support
Financial assistance for travel to and from Ogun State.
🧑🏫 Hands-On Training & Mentorship
Expert guidance from FarmCI and Soilless Farm Lab trainers.
🎁 Personalized Starter Kit
Each fellow receives essential tools and materials to immediately launch their food value addition business.
🤝 Networking Opportunities
Connect with:
- Fellow innovators
- Industry experts
- Program partners
📜 Certificate of Completion
Formal recognition of successful participation.
📈 Post-Program Support
Ongoing mentorship and business development guidance.
Program Timeline
Phase 1: Application & Selection
- Submit your application before March 10, 2026
- Applications reviewed and fellows selected
- Successful applicants notified
Phase 2: Pre-Fellowship Onboarding
- Detailed preparation guidance
- Training expectations and logistics
Phase 3: 5-Day Intensive Residential Training
Held at Soilless Farm Lab in Ogun State:
- Practical workshops
- Food value addition demonstrations
- Mentorship sessions
- Networking opportunities
Phase 4: Post-Fellowship Growth
- Receive your starter kit
- Launch your food business
- Access mentorship and follow-up support
Who Should Apply?
This fellowship is ideal for:
- Young Nigerians interested in agribusiness
- Food entrepreneurs seeking practical processing skills
- Innovators passionate about reducing food waste
- Youth looking to start or scale food value addition businesses
Why This Fellowship Matters
Nigeria faces significant post-harvest losses, especially in vegetables and spices. By equipping young entrepreneurs with value addition skills, the program contributes to:
- Job creation
- Reduced food waste
- Improved food security
- Increased income for youth
This initiative bridges agriculture, innovation, and entrepreneurship — empowering young Nigerians to become food industry leaders.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should:
- Visit the official webpage
- Complete and submit the application form
- Apply before March 10, 2026
