Last year, my close friend Amaka was at rock bottom. She had just lost her job, rent was due, and her dream of starting a tailoring business in Lagos felt impossible. But one day, she stumbled across a government initiative called the YEIDEP Grant (Youth Entrepreneurship and Innovation Development Empowerment Program). Skeptical but hopeful, she applied and within two months, she received ₦250,000 to kickstart her business.
Today, Amaka runs a small but thriving fashion outfit, takes online orders via Instagram, and even employs two apprentices. That single opportunity changed her life.
So if you’re wondering how to apply for Yeidep Grant, you’re in the right place. I’ll walk you through everything, step-by-step, just like I did with Amaka.
What Is Yeidep Grant and Who Is It For?
The Yeidep Grant is a Nigerian government initiative aimed at empowering youth, small business owners, and aspiring entrepreneurs with funding and training. It’s part of the government’s strategy to tackle unemployment and stimulate economic growth, especially in rural and urban areas.
Target beneficiaries include:
Young entrepreneurs (18–45 years)
Small business owners
Women and marginalized groups
NYSC members and graduates
Artisans and creatives
How to Apply for Yeidep Grant in 2025
To apply for Yeidep Grant, visit the official YEIDEP portal, register with your details, complete the application form, upload required documents, and submit. Await confirmation via SMS or email.
Let’s break it down with detailed steps you can follow:
Step 1: Visit the Official Yeidep Portal
Go to the official website. Be careful of fake links! Only use the verified government platform.
Step 2: Create a Profile
Enter your full name, phone number, email, and BVN.
Choose a strong password.
Use your correct details. Mismatched names and BVN info can lead to disqualification.
Step 3: Fill the Application Form
Select your preferred industry or business idea.
Answer all questions honestly, including prior business experience or training.
Upload required documents (e.g., valid ID, proof of address, NYSC certificate if applicable).
Step 4: Submit and Wait for Verification
After submitting, you’ll receive an email or SMS confirmation.
Your application will be reviewed. Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for training.
How to Apply for Yeidep Grant Without a Code
You may have heard people saying you need a “referral code” or “application code” to apply. Here’s the truth:
You can apply for Yeidep Grant without a code if you register directly through the official portal during an open application window.
But here’s what to do if you’re asked for a code:
Leave the field blank if it’s optional.
Use your Phone number in the space for code
Don’t ever pay anyone for a code. It’s a free government initiative.
How to Open Your YEIDEP Bank Account Without the Code
If you haven’t received your code, you can still open your account by following this trick:
Use the same phone number you registered with in the space asking for the YEIDEP code.
That’s it. Just enter your registered phone number instead of the code. This method has already worked for thousands of applicants across several banks.
Banks Where This Method Is Working
Several partner banks have accepted this approach successfully, including:
Keystone Bank
Fidelity Bank
Jaiz Bank
Other YEIDEP-partner banks
Applicants who followed this method have had their accounts opened without any issues.
How to Open a Bank Account for Yeidep Grant
Yes, you’ll need a bank account that matches the name on your BVN. If you don’t have one, don’t panic. Here’s how to do it quickly:
Simple Steps to Open an Account for Yeidep Grant:
Visit any bank with your NIN Slip, Passport Photograph, and Utility Bill.
- Tell them you want to open an Account for Yeidep Empowerment Fund
- Give them the code you received during Yeidep account registration
Eligibility Criteria for Yeidep Grant
Before applying, make sure you meet the following criteria:
✅ You must be a Nigerian citizen (18–45 years old)
✅ You must have a valid means of identification (NIN, Voter’s Card, or Driver’s License)
✅ You must have a BVN and a valid bank account
✅ You must have a business idea or existing small business
✅ Willingness to attend compulsory training (virtual or physical)
Required Documents for Yeidep Grant Application
Have these documents ready before you apply:
National Identity Number (NIN)
Bank Verification Number (BVN)
Valid ID (Voter’s Card, National ID, or Driver’s License)
Passport Photograph
Business Plan or Proposal (optional but recommended)
NYSC certificate (if applicable)
Top Questions Nigerians Are Asking About Yeidep Grant
❓Is it possible to start a business online without capital in Nigeria?
Yes! The Yeidep Grant is designed to help with that. You can apply for funding, then start businesses like:
Mini importation
Social media management
Drop servicing
Affiliate marketing
You don’t need huge capital and just knowledge and access to the internet.
❓Can I reapply if my application was rejected?
Yes, you can. But review your previous application. Maybe you left some parts incomplete or didn’t meet the requirements. Fix those before reapplying.
❓Is Yeidep Grant a Loan or Free Money?
It’s a grant, meaning you don’t have to pay it back, though you may be required to submit reports or attend business training.
❓How long does it take to receive the Yeidep Grant after applying?
It varies. Shortlisted candidates are often contacted within 4–6 weeks. Once training is completed, disbursement may follow shortly.
Important Tips Before You Apply
Double-check your BVN and NIN: Mismatched data leads to rejection.
Use a working email and phone number: This is how they’ll contact you.
Don’t rush the application: Fill everything carefully and truthfully.
Ignore scammers: No agent should ask you to pay for grant access.
Join WhatsApp/Telegram groups: Stay updated on application deadlines.
Other Grants You Can Apply for in Nigeria (2025)
While you wait for your Yeidep Grant approval, here are other legit grant programs:
| Grant Name | Website/Source | Target Group |
|---|---|---|
| Tony Elumelu Foundation | www.tonyelumelufoundation.org | African Entrepreneurs |
| BOA Youth Loan | boa.org | Agribusiness |
| NITDA Grant | National IT Development Agency | Tech Startups |
| NYIF (Youth Fund) | www.nyif.nmfb.com.ng | Nigerian Youth |
The Yeidep Grant could be that first step for you. Whether you’re a tailor, content creator, baker, or aspiring tech boss, you can start something great.
You’ve seen how Amaka turned her ₦250,000 grant into a full-blown business. If she can, why not you?
Key Takeaways
Visit the official Yeidep portal to apply.
You don’t need a code to start your application.
Open a valid bank account with BVN before applying.
Make sure you meet all eligibility criteria.
Don’t pay any agent or middleman—the application is free.
Stay informed and patient. Government grants take time, but are worth it.
