MTN Foundation Y’ellopreneur Program 2026: Training, Funding for Nigerian Women Entrepreneurs
Applications are now open for the MTN Foundation Y’ellopreneur Program 2026, a key initiative to cut female unemployment in Nigeria. This program offers training and funding to help women grow their businesses. It targets female entrepreneurs ready to build skills and access capital. This article covers the program overview, eligibility rules, benefits, structure, and how to apply. Nigerian women in business will find clear steps to join.
What is the MTN Foundation Y’ellopreneur Program 2026?
The MTN Foundation Y’ellopreneur Program 2026 aims to lower women’s unemployment rates and boost their role in entrepreneurship. It does this through skill-building training and loans for equipment. The program helps women start and expand businesses in Nigeria.
Past phases show strong results. In phases 1 and 2, it trained 5,754 female entrepreneurs in key skills. Then, 122 of them got equipment loans worth over N301 million.
Now in phase 3, MTN Foundation partners with the Bank of Industry. They use a matching fund model of N1 billion. This setup promises even more support for women-led businesses.
Key past achievements include:
- Trained 5,754 women in entrepreneurship skills.
- Provided equipment loans to 122 entrepreneurs, totaling over N301 million.
- Built a foundation for phase 3 with a N1 billion matching fund.
These steps prove the program’s real impact on women’s economic growth.
Eligibility Requirements
Women must meet clear rules to join the MTN Foundation Y’ellopreneur Program 2026. These criteria ensure the program helps established businesses with growth potential. They match Nigeria’s needs in key sectors that create jobs and use local resources.
Requirements include:
- Must be a female entrepreneur in Nigeria.
- Must own a business operating for at least 2 years.
- Business in sectors like Agriculture/Processing, Manufacturing, ICT/Digital services, or Waste management/Circular economy.
- Preference for businesses that use locally sourced raw materials.
This focus supports sustainable growth and local economies.
Key Benefits for Participants
The MTN Foundation Y’ellopreneur Program 2026 offers real help for common business hurdles like skills gaps and funding. Selected women get tools to scale up. These perks build confidence and long-term success.
Benefits include:
- Training for selected participants to sharpen business skills.
- Access to equipment loans up to ₦2M – ₦3M.
- Grants available after loan repayment.
- Business advisory and mentorship support.
Busy entrepreneurs can scan these quickly and see the value.
Program Structure
The MTN Foundation Y’ellopreneur Program 2026 follows a clear five-step path. Each phase builds on the last to turn ideas into strong businesses. About 1,000 women start the process.
- Entrepreneurial Training (for ~1000 women): Women learn core skills like planning and marketing. This sets a solid base for growth.
- Business Plan Development: Participants create detailed plans. These outline goals and how funding will help.
- Selection of Top Candidates: Strong plans lead to picks for funding. Judges look for viable ideas.
- Funding (loan + grant support): Top picks get loans up to ₦3M. Grants follow repayment for extra boost.
- Ongoing Advisory Support: Mentors guide businesses long-term. This ensures lasting success.
This order makes the journey straightforward.
How to Apply and Important Dates
Nigerian female entrepreneurs should act fast for the MTN Foundation Y’ellopreneur Program 2026. Visit the official MTN Foundation webpage for full application steps and forms.
Application Deadline: April 20, 2026
Mark this date to stay on track. The site has all details needed to start.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the MTN Foundation Y’ellopreneur Program 2026?
It’s a program that trains female entrepreneurs in Nigeria and provides equipment loans to help reduce unemployment and grow businesses.
Who can apply for the program?
Female entrepreneurs in Nigeria with businesses running for at least two years in sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, ICT, or waste management qualify.
What benefits does the program offer?
Selected women receive skill training, loans up to ₦3M, grants after repayment, and business mentorship.
How do I apply and when is the deadline?
Visit the official MTN Foundation webpage at mtn.ng/foundation/yellopreneur/ for the application form; the deadline is April 20, 2026.