The Atiku Institute for Development is now accepting applications for a Small Grants Program. This program is made to support Women-Led Organizations (WLOs) and Youth-Led Organizations (YLOs) in Nigeria.
The main goal is to help these groups work better in areas like gender equality, sexual and reproductive health, livelihood support, and protection from abuse. The program is supported by UNFPA (United Nations Population Fund), in partnership with the American University of Nigeria (AUN) and with funding from the Norwegian Government.
The deadline to apply is April 12, 2025.
Who Can Apply?
Only groups based in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states can apply. These groups must be led by either women or youth and must meet the conditions below.
Target Organizations:
- Women-led organizations
- Youth-led organizations
- Located in Borno, Adamawa, or Yobe State
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, organizations must meet all the following rules:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Focus Area | Your project must focus on GBV in Emergencies (GBViE), Sexual and Reproductive Health Initiatives in Emergencies (SRHIE), or Women and Youth Empowerment |
| Women-Led Groups | Must have more women in leadership or on the board |
| Youth-Led Groups | Must have at least 70% youth as staff or members |
| Registration | Must be registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and provide RC number |
| Financial System | Must have a valid accounting system with clear roles for each team member |
| Past Work | Must show photo evidence of activities done in the past 2 years |
| Inclusion | Projects that include people with disabilities and aim to “Leave No One Behind” are welcome |
| Extra Themes | Projects that include peacebuilding or environmental protection will be given priority |
| Only One Proposal | You can apply for only one grant envelope (do not send multiple proposals) |
What the Grant Covers
These small grants are not just for funding. They help organizations build their skills and do better work. The support includes:
- Small money grants for community projects
- Training in organizational management
- Help in responding to gender-based violence
- Support for sexual and reproductive health services
- Guidance on sustainable development
This project will support 72 organizations in total, all within the BAY states (Borno, Adamawa, Yobe).
Why This Matters
Many women and youth-led groups work hard to help their communities. But they often do not have enough money or training to grow. These grants will help them:
- Do more work in their local areas
- Help women and girls during hard times
- Provide health and support services
- Promote peace and inclusion
- Reach people who are often forgotten
UNFPA and its partners believe that helping these organizations will bring real change to the lives of women, youth, and other vulnerable people in Nigeria.
How to Apply
Follow these simple steps to apply:
- Visit the official page of the Atiku Institute for Development
- Check the full guidelines and prepare your documents
- Write your proposal based on the listed themes (GBViE, SRHIE, empowerment)
- Submit your application before April 12, 2025
- For updates, visit the official X (Twitter) page: https://x.com/aid_nigeria/status/1907735720661250532
Conclusion
This is a special chance for Women-Led and Youth-Led Organizations in the BAY states to get funding and grow stronger. If your group is working to help people in areas like health, safety, equality, or peacebuilding, do not miss this opportunity.
Remember, the deadline is April 12, 2025. Make sure you meet all the requirements and apply on time. This could be the start of bigger things for your organization and your community.
FAQs – Small Grants for Women and Youth Organizations
Q1: Who is giving the grants?
The Atiku Institute for Development with support from UNFPA, AUN, and the Norwegian Government.
Q2: Who can apply?
Women-led and youth-led organizations based in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states.
Q3: What is the deadline?
All applications must be submitted before April 12, 2025.
Q4: Can I apply for more than one grant?
No. Each organization can submit only one proposal.
Q5: What documents are required?
CAC registration certificate, proof of past work (photos), NIN/BVN, and a proposal addressing the listed themes.