Nigeria 25under25 Youth Entrepreneurship & Leadership Awards
Sharing stories of amazing youth entrepreneurs who are below 25 years of age, working hard and making a positive impact in their communities.
Our commitment lies in providing support to the upcoming generation of young leaders nationwide.
The 25under25 awards offer a range of benefits and opportunities to young entrepreneurs. The award provides financial support, a year-long incubation program, personalized leadership coaching, and connections to a network of advisors, mentors, and potential investors.
The primary objective is to assist early-stage entrepreneurs in realizing their bold ideas and establishing successful and sustainable businesses. By providing a conducive space, a supportive community, and essential access, we aim to empower these entrepreneurs and enable them to bring their entrepreneurial aspirations to life.
Nominees will receive:
- Certificate of Nomination: Acknowledging their entrepreneurial achievements and contribution to your industry.
- Community Access: Connect with a vibrant network of young entrepreneurs, mentors, and changemakers.
- Exclusive Training Opportunities: Access to SME100Africa workshops, webinars, and business development programs.
- Visibility & Promotion: Get featured across SME100Africa platforms and nominee spotlights.
- Networking Opportunities: Meet industry leaders, investors, and partners at our events.
- Mentorship Prospects: Stand a chance to be matched with experienced mentors in your sector.
FAQs
What you need to know
Anyone who is 27 years old or younger by the nomination/application deadline can be considered for the 25under25 Awards. Nominations can be made by anyone, including self-nominations, recommendations, or referrals.
Nomination/application is free.
Winners are determined not just by votes, but also by how well they meet the requirements of their category.
To qualify, nominees must have:
- A registered business (CAC certificate)
- Proof of business transactions or activity
- Visible business platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, or a website — where we can identify your brand through followers, content, and engagement.
Achievements and Impact
Nominees should demonstrate significant achievements, contributions, or impact in their field — such as innovative projects, business growth, community involvement, or strong leadership. These accomplishments should be visible and verifiable on their social media or digital platforms.
How Winners Are Selected
Each nominee is evaluated across three main areas:
- Votes received
- Business credibility
- Document screening and category compliance
The final winners are determined by the cumulative score from all these factors.
The organizers will announce the date and location of the award ceremony closer to the event.
Generally, those who were not chosen as winners in previous years can still apply or be nominated for future editions of the 25under25 Awards as far as the nominee is under 25.
Explore our award recipients
Take a moment to read the bio of our previous recipients and learn about the positive influence they have had on their communities.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Experience and qualification: Nominees must have a proven track record of experience in the field, complemented by relevant qualifications that showcase their expertise
- Age: The founder(s) must not be older than 27 when receiving the award and the company must have existed for at least 3 years.
- Nationality: The event was solely made to recognize and celebrate micro and small businesses that are transforming industries in Nigeria. The business owner/founder must be a Nigerian to be able to qualify.
- Achievement and contribution: Eligible candidates should be able to provide concrete examples of their impactful contributions. The company must be contributing to social economic development in Nigeria.
- Ethical standing: Individuals nominated must have a clean record with no recent or ongoing ethical or legal issues. The line of business must be by Nigerian laws.
- Originality: The business must be duly registered under the Corporate Affairs Commission of Nigeria or with SMEDAN (except for those in the Creative Writing & Content Creation, Music, Performing Arts, and Sports categories).
Nomination Guidelines:
- Nominees or individuals familiar with their work may submit applications.
Industries include:
- Active Citizenship & Government Engagement
- Agriculture
- Arts, Craft & Culture
- Beauty & Makeup
- Creative Writing & Content Creation
- E-commerce
- Education
- Energy & Sustainability
- Environment & Interior Decor
- Event Planning
- Fashion
- Finance & Financial Technology
- Food & Drinks
- Health & Skincare
- Hospitality & Tourism
- Manufacturing & Logistics
- Media & Communications
- Music
- Performing Arts
- Photography
- Professional Services
- Social Entrepreneurship
- Software & Design
- Sports
- Technology
What makes someone a winner?
Our world’s future depends on people who make significant changes. The 25Under25 Awards winners are those who have made great achievements, provided new ideas and leadership, had a positive impact, and have the potential to keep making a difference in their field.
