Updated November 2026: this post has been refreshed with current information for readers in Nigeria. It is general information, not professional business advice.
In 2015 TOTAL Africa (now TotalEnergies) launched the Startupper of the Year Challenge, inviting young Nigerian entrepreneurs to submit business ideas for a chance to win financial support. The challenge has run again in later editions, and many other grants, competitions and accelerator programmes now target African founders. The 2015 deadline has long passed, so this guide explains how to find current opportunities and give your application the best chance.
Types of startup funding
- Grants: non-repayable funds from companies, foundations, governments or development agencies.
- Business plan competitions: like Startupper, where winners receive cash, training or mentoring.
- Accelerators and incubators: programmes offering mentorship, workspace and sometimes investment in exchange for equity.
- Angel investors and venture capital: equity investment for businesses with high growth potential.
- Loans: from banks, microfinance banks, cooperatives and government-backed SME schemes.
Where to find opportunities
- Official websites and social pages of corporate foundations and companies with entrepreneurship programmes.
- Government and development finance agencies supporting SMEs.
- Tech hubs and innovation centres in Lagos, Abuja and other cities.
- University entrepreneurship centres and alumni networks.
- Reputable opportunity newsletters, always verifying details on the organiser's own website.
How to write a winning application
- Read the criteria carefully. Many applications fail because they do not match eligibility rules such as age, country or business stage.
- Explain the problem clearly. Who is affected and why does it matter?
- Show your solution and why you. What makes your approach different, and what experience does your team have?
- Show evidence. Early customers, sales, pilots or feedback carry more weight than ideas alone.
- Be specific about money. State how much you need and exactly how you will use it.
- Show impact. Jobs created, people served or environmental benefits.
- Keep it clear and honest. Avoid jargon and do not exaggerate numbers.
Prepare your basics in advance
- Register your business with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC); many programmes require it.
- Open a business bank account and keep simple financial records.
- Prepare a one-page summary, a short pitch deck and a two-minute pitch video.
- Collect testimonials and photos of your product or service.
Beware of grant scams
Fake grant offers are common. Red flags include requests for an 'application fee' or 'processing fee' to release funds, messages from personal email or WhatsApp numbers, and promises of guaranteed approval. Genuine grant programmes generally do not charge you to receive money. Always verify on the organiser's official website.
If you do not win
Most applicants do not win on the first try. Ask for feedback if available, improve your plan and apply again. The process of preparing an application often sharpens your business model and pitch, which helps with customers and investors too.
Frequently asked questions
Is the TOTAL Startupper challenge still running?
TotalEnergies has run further editions since 2015. Check its official Startupper website for current dates and rules.
Do I need a registered business to apply for grants?
Many programmes require it, though some accept early-stage ideas. Check each programme's criteria.
Should I pay to apply for a grant?
Be very cautious. Legitimate grants rarely charge fees to release funds.