The Fembol student innovation grant is among Nigeria’s top initiatives to assist young innovators and entrepreneurs. It empowers students, especially female STEM students (science, technology, engineering, and Math) – to turn their ideas into practical solutions that have measurable impacts.
In 2025 the grant will provide mentoring and funding as well as training for students studying at Nigerian polytechnics and universities. Beyond funding, the beneficiaries will have accessibility to the national network of innovators as well as assistance for business development. This guide describes what you need to do in order to submit an application for the Fembol Grant with eligibility criteria as well as the required documents, the application process, and deadlines.
What Is the Fembol Student Innovation Grant?
The Fembol Student Innovation Grant is a national program created to identify and support Nigeria’s most promising student innovators. Its mission is to foster the development of problem-solving skills, creativity, and entrepreneurship among the students.
The program is geared towards STEM female students; however, it is accessible to any competent Nigerian students who demonstrate an original concept or idea that addresses a technological, social, or economic issue.
The recipients receive more than just funds. They benefit from mentoring, guidance for business development, and training in the Fembol Innovation Bootcamp. This program helps students to grow their ventures and gain additional partnership or funding.
Participants enjoy:
- Up to N3 million in non-repayable grant funding.
- access to mentoring programs with professional mentors.
- Participation in the Fembol Innovation Bootcamp.
- Exposure to investors as well as industry partners and startups’ ecosystems.
In fostering innovation led by youth, Fembol contributes to Nigeria’s economic growth as well as gender equality in STEM-related fields.
Funding & Coverage
Fembol Grant is a The Fembol Grant offers non-repayable funds, which means it’s not an actual credit. The financial assistance is tailored to the project’s size and potential for innovation.
Funding Range:
- Individual applicants: up to the limit of one million dollars.
- Team or group applicants: up to three million dollars.
Areas Covered:
- Innovation in science and technology.
- Engineering manufacturing and design.
- Green economy and renewable energy initiatives.
- Biotechnology and digital health.
- Food technology and agriculture.
- Artificial Intelligence and ICT-based concepts.
The program is targeted at women in STEM as well as young entrepreneurs who are passionate about developing sustainable solutions that meet the global and national development goals.
Eligibility
The applicants need to satisfy the following requirements for being eligible:
General Requirements
- It is required to have at least a Nigerian resident or a permanent residence.
- It should be studying at a Nigerian higher education institution (university or polytechnic or a college).
- Should have a minimum age of 16 and a maximum age of 28 on the date when you apply.
- Should be able to present an idea or a project that shows obvious possibility of innovation, feasibility, and quantifiable impact.
For Female STEM Students
- The user must be a woman and in a related course in STEM.
- The project should be related to a technical, scientific, or engineering field.
For Team Applications
- Teams should be comprised of four or five students, including at minimum 1 female student in STEM acting as team leader.
- Every team member must meet the eligibility requirements and be assigned a specific job.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step Guide)
- Access the official Fembol Portal: Go to the official Fembol Grant website when the application window is opened. Avoid unofficial or social media-related links.
- Make an account:
Register with the full form of your name and your active email address, and a secure security password. Verify your account by clicking on the confirmation email link that is sent to you. - Apply on the Formula:
Fill in all fields completely, including personal information, educational details, and the project’s summary. - Uploading Required Documents:
Prepare and upload all documents required using the PDF format. Check that each file is in compliance with the size and specifications for format. - Check Your Submission:
Double-check the information for any mistakes or errors prior to making your submission. - Submit Form:
Click “Submit” to send your form. A confirmation message or reference number will show in your dashboard. - Selection and interview:
Shortlisted candidates can be invited for interviews, presentations for projects, and video pitches. - Participate in the innovation bootcamp:
The selected applicants will take part in an intense training and mentorship session prior to making the final selection. - Get Grant Disbursement
The successful applicants will get notified by email and will receive funds after they have completed verification and documents.
Required Documents
The applicants must complete the following documents prior to applying:
- A valid student ID card or evidence for enrollment.
- National Identification Number (NIN) or valid ID.
- Proposal for project (problem solutions, goals, objectives, and budget).
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or short bio.
- Academic transcript or transcript (if there is one available).
- Recommendation letters from a professor or supervisor (optional but useful).
Timelines (2025 Official Update)
The Fembol Student Innovation Grant 2025 is now open for applications. Below is the confirmed schedule for this year’s cycle:
- Application Opening: September 2025
- Deadline for Submission: November 16, 2025
- Screening and Shortlisting: November–December 2025
- Innovation Bootcamp: January 2026
- Final Selection and Grant Disbursement: February 2026
Applicants are encouraged to submit their entries well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues. Late submissions will not be accepted once the portal closes on November 16, 2025.
Common Challenges or Warnings
- incomplete form: Missing documents or unanswered fields can result in automatic exclusion.
- False information: Providing inaccurate details can result in permanent disqualification.
- Deadline for submission of applications: Applications close automatically on the date of the deadline. Apply early.
- Scams Alerts: Fembol is not charging any processing or application fees. Avoid paying any intermediary or agent.
- Generic proposals: Weak or unoriginal concepts are less likely to be selected. being selected. Focus on imagination and practicality.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply for the Fembol Grant?
All Nigerian students aged 16–28 enrolled in tertiary institutions can apply, with preference for female STEM students.
Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Grant Name | Fembol Student Innovation Grant |
| Funding Amount | Up to ₦3 million |
| Funding Type | Non-repayable grant |
| Eligibility | Nigerian students (16–28 years), female STEM focus |
| Application Method | Online via official portal |
| Focus Areas | Science, Technology, Engineering, Innovation |
| Documents Required | Student ID, NIN, Proposal, CV, Transcript |
| Deadline (Expected) | November 16, 2025 |
| Training Component | Bootcamp and Mentorship |
| Grant Disbursement | February 2026 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply for the Fembol Grant?
All Nigerian students aged 16–28 enrolled in tertiary institutions can apply, with preference for female STEM students.
2. Is the grant repayable?
No, it is a non-repayable grant.
3. Can I apply as part of a team?
Yes, teams of 2–4 members can apply under one project proposal.
4. What is the maximum funding amount?
Up to ₦3 million, depending on project type and impact.
5. Do I need to own a business to apply?
No. You only need an innovative idea or working prototype.
6. Is there an application fee?
No. The application is completely free.
7. How will I know if my application was received?
You’ll receive a confirmation message or email with your application reference number.
8. Do postgraduate students qualify?
Yes, provided they are currently enrolled in Nigerian tertiary institutions.
9. What happens after selection?
Winners attend the Fembol Innovation Bootcamp and receive mentorship and funding.
10. When are funds disbursed?
Funds are released between July and August 2025, following final verification.
Related Guides
- How to Apply for Presidential Palliative Grant in Nigeria (2025)
- how to apply for the tony elumelu foundation grant/
- Fembol grant female student STEM eligibility
- BOI Loan Eligibility Requirements for New Businesses (2025 Update)
Conclusion
The Fembol student innovation grant is a life-changing chance for Nigerian students who are eager to apply the power of technology and creativity to solve issues. With financial assistance, mentoring, and public recognition that empowers students, particularly women in STEM fields, to bring their ideas to fruition.
If you are eligible to apply, make sure you have your documents ready, prepare a convincing proposal for your project, and submit it early via this site. With dedication and a clear plan, your idea could be the next breakthrough in Nigeria’s innovative ecosystem.