N20 million research grant to support 150 innovative university projects in Nigeria

A Nigerian university research scheme will provide N20 million in grants for 150 projects, including 100 undergraduate studies and 50 postgraduate projects.

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In addition to the designated focus areas for research proposals, the following criteria will serve as the basis for evaluating all submissions.

The Grooming Centre University Grant Scheme opened its 2026 application call in Lagos. Chimfurumnaya Chukwuekem, assistant manager for research and development at CREM, said applicants would face no barriers based on age, gender, religion or ethnicity.

The programme is seeking research relevant to Nigeria and capable of producing practical results in areas including financial inclusion, microfinance, rural development, social enterprise, small and medium-sized businesses, technological development, digital innovation in finance, youth development and women’s empowerment. Proposals should also aim to help lift people out of poverty.

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The focus of the research study must be relevant to the Nigerian context, practical, innovative and should be capable of promoting any of the above areas of interest in the Nigerian space.

CREM Consulting chief operating officer Clifford Onyeike said submissions must show “a high level of originality, imaginative thought and be data-inclusive.” Applicants must study at an approved Nigerian tertiary institution. Selected beneficiaries will be required to submit their final projects to the centre.

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Show a high level of originality, imaginative thought and be data-inclusive.

Applications opened on August 31 and close on October 23. Since the scheme began in 2019, it has awarded prizes to 659 students.

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Once selected, beneficiaries must submit their final project to the centre.