The FGN-ALAT Digital Skillnovation Programme is an agreement with the Nigerian Federal government as well as Wema Bank (via its ALAT digital bank). It was launched in the latter half of 2023 in Abuja as well as across Nigeria. The aim is to provide professionals, youth, and micro, small, and medium-sized companies (MSMEs) with entrepreneurial and digital skills and also to provide financial aid. Through loans, grants, and even training, this program will help boost employment and growth of businesses in Nigeria’s rapidly evolving digital economy.
What Is the Program?
The FGN-ALAT Digital Skillnovation Program is a unified innovation, skills, and financing initiative. It was designed to help young people (job seekers) as well as professionals (upskilling) as well as MSMEs (business proprietors or potential entrepreneurs). The training is offered online as well as through physical hubs throughout all states in Nigeria. Participants learn digital expertise (software engineering, cloud computing, and design of products) as well as business management mentorship, market access, and sometimes even financing.
The program is designed to assist small businesses to grow as well as connect with markets and gain access to finance, not just to train individuals. It provides incubation and access to markets and loans or grants that follow. Also, at the time of its launch, the program had pledged to train around 2 million young people in addition to 1 million small and medium-sized enterprises in Nigeria. This makes it a training and development initiative as well as a financing gateway for innovative and digital businesses.
Funding & Coverage
Funding amounts:
- Up to N500,000 to eligible early-stage companies that are tech-enabled.
- Businesses that are eligible for loans that are eligible to receive up to five million dollars, subject to certain conditions.
- Additional angel or venture opportunities to invest in certain companies’ tickets as high as $100,000 and a maximum valuation of $2 million for companies in early stages.
Interest rates:
- The specific details of interest rates published aren’t always readily available from public sources. The applicants should confirm the current rates on the official website or the application documents.
Coverage / target groups:
- Youth (job seekers) across Nigeria.
- Professionals in the working class who want to improve their skills.
- Entrepreneurs who want to become business owners as well as existing MSMEs that have technology-enabled or digital models.
- Priority sectors for businesses include agriculture, retail, housing/property, clean solutions, transportation/logistics, data/infrastructure, privacy/security, and energy innovation.
- The geographical scope of HTML0 is all of Nigeria (all states as well as FCT) via hub and virtual delivery.
Eligibility
- Candidates must be Nigerian professionals, youth, or MSMEs operating in Nigeria.
- For funding: companies need to be tech-savvy at an early stage, or seed or early stage, as well as operational in Nigeria and have products or services aimed towards Nigerian customers. Nigerian market.
- Priority sectors include retail, agriculture, clean energy, and logistics.
- The applicants must have a strong team with a sustainable business model and have good ethical/legal standing.
- For loans, proof of earnings or ability to pay back may be required, such as collateral or a personal guarantee.
- Training tracks for professional applicants, job seekers, and business owners have to meet the age or status criteria, as stated within the form (e.g., young or MSME business owner).
How to Apply
- Visit the official site to learn more about the FGN-ALAT digital Skillnovation Program.
- Create your profile and choose your path (jobseeker, professional, or aspiring business owner, as well as business proprietor).
- Fill out the application online, indicating your company’s concept and learning track choice.
- Send the required documents along with any business plan or other evidence.
- Then wait for a review. The selected applicants will be notified of their selection and accepted into mentorship, training, and/or the funding process.
- Participate in the training (virtual/physical) and adhere to the milestones that are assigned to you.
- For those who apply for funding: After training and reviewing, successful applicants will receive grants or loans and will sign a contract.
- Get support or access funds to continue your business or training program.
Required Documents
- Identification documents that are valid (Nigerian identity card or passport or driver’s license)
- Curriculum Vitae (for people) or a profile of a business owner
- Number for registration of business with RC (for MSMEs)
- Concept note or business plan (for the track of funding)
- Financial records or bank statements from recent days (for credit applicants)
- Address proof
- Valid certificates of qualification or proof of operation
Timelines
- Applications window In continuous use for groups At the time of launch, online training started in November 2023.
- Review and selection When applications close for each cohort, review takes up to a few weeks.
- Approval and training begin: Training begins virtually with physical training, and then the physical session follows in the next stage.
- Disbursement of funds If applicants are successful, the funds are disbursed following completion of the training and signing of the agreement.
- Finalization: The training and funding cycle ends for each cohort; new cohorts are announced regularly.
Common Challenges or Warnings
- Fake portals, scams Only apply through the official website for the FGN-ALAT digital skillnovation program.
- Disbursement delays: Training, selection, and funding cycles could require time. Patience and constant follow-up are crucial.
- Misunderstandings about eligibility: Certain applicants can apply for grants despite not meeting the business stage or focus criteria.
- Complete documentation Documents that are not in order or the absence of a business strategy could result in the disqualification.
- Training in contrast to the funding It focuses on mentorship and training first. Funding is competitive and cannot be guaranteed for everyone who participates.
Summary Table
| Component | Key Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 12 months (paid internship) |
| Monthly Stipend | ₦100,000 – ₦150,000 |
| Age Requirement | Maximum 30 years |
| Education Level | Bachelor’s Degree or HND |
| Programme Coverage | All 36 states + FCT |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Key Benefit | Work experience, mentorship, and skill development |
| Target Group | Fresh graduates seeking entry-level experience |
FAQs
- What is the NJFP?
A 12-month paid internship for Nigerian graduates to gain practical experience and professional skills. - Who funds the programme?
It is financed by the Federal Government and international development partners. - How much is the stipend?
Fellows earn between ₦100,000 and ₦150,000 monthly. - What are the eligibility requirements?
Nigerian graduates aged 30 or below with a degree, NYSC certificate, and no current employment. - How do I apply?
Visit the official NJFP website, fill out the form, upload documents, and await placement. - Can I apply if I already have a job?
No, the programme is for unemployed graduates. - Is NJFP available nationwide?
Yes, fellows are placed in organisations across all states and the FCT. - Does it guarantee a permanent job?
No, but fellows may receive job offers or start businesses after the programme. - How long does the internship last?
12 months of paid placement and training. - Are polytechnic graduates eligible?
Yes, HND holders can apply. - Is there an application fee?
No, the process is completely free. - When will the next application open?
Dates are announced periodically on the NJFP website and official communication channels.
Conclusion
The FGN-ALAT Digital Skillsnovation Program provides a great opportunity for Nigerian professionals and young people, as well as MSMEs, to develop business and digital skills, get access to funds, and expand their businesses. The applicants must apply via this portal to submit all documentation and engage in instruction. By doing this, you increase your chance of gaining from this program and assisting in the Nigerian economy’s digital transformation.
Disclaimer: This article is meant to be used for educational and informational purposes only. It is not any financial advice, nor does it imply endorsement of any program. Always confirm official details and conditions prior to applying.