The Federal Government, through the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), has announced the opening of applications for the Global Cleantech Innovation Programme (GCIP) Nigeria Accelerator Fund, offering grants of up to $20,000 to Nigerian startups and small businesses.
The initiative is designed to support clean-tech startups and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) developing innovative solutions focused on sustainability, renewable energy, and green business growth across Nigeria.
According to the REA, the programme targets high-potential businesses building impactful clean technology solutions capable of driving economic growth and environmental sustainability.
Focus on High-Growth Cleantech Businesses
The GCIP Nigeria programme will provide competition-based financial support to startups and SMEs working on green innovation and clean energy projects.
Selected businesses will receive funding to accelerate growth, improve commercialization, strengthen technology development, and increase market readiness.
REA stated that priority will be given to businesses with strong continuity plans, sales traction, profitability potential, and solutions addressing pressing environmental and energy challenges.
The agency added that the grant programme is expected to help participating businesses scale operations, expand market reach, and deepen their impact within Nigeria’s growing clean technology ecosystem.
Eligible Innovation Categories
Businesses applying for the programme must operate within any of the following six categories:
- Energy Efficiency Innovations
- Waste Beneficiation Innovations
- E-Mobility Innovations
- Renewable Energy Innovations
- Green Building Innovations
- Advanced Materials and Chemical Innovations
Applicants are expected to demonstrate clear innovation capacity and measurable business potential.
Eligibility Requirements
REA noted that the programme is mainly targeted at incubated startups and SMEs that have completed recognized acceleration programmes and can show verifiable performance records.
Eligible businesses must:
- Be between zero and five years old
- Possess CAC registration documents
- Have a valid Tax Identification Number (TIN)
- Provide proof of registration with a recognized Nigerian innovation or incubation hub
Other required documents include:
- Financial statements signed by a chartered accountant
- A detailed business plan
- Reference letters
- Compliance and sustainability reports
- Additional supporting documents verifying claims made during the application process
The agency also encouraged female-led and youth-led businesses to apply.
Approved Use of Grant Funds
Successful applicants may use the grant for:
- Manufacturing expansion
- Equipment procurement
- Operational scaling
- Shipping and logistics
- Prototype testing
- Pilot programmes
- Regulatory certifications
- Product development
- Digital marketing and branding
REA explained that grants will be disbursed in phases and paid in naira using the prevailing Central Bank of Nigeria exchange rate.
Applications supported with detailed budgets and strong documentation are expected to receive priority during evaluation.
Application Deadline
Applications opened on May 11, 2026, and will remain open for three weeks.
Interested applicants are required to submit completed application templates and supporting documents before 12:00 PM on June 1, 2026.
Submissions should be sent via email to:
gcip.nigeria@rea.gov.ng
Applicants are advised to use their company name as the email subject for the GCIP REA SME Acceleration Fund application.
The REA described the programme as a major opportunity for Nigerian clean-tech entrepreneurs seeking funding to scale sustainable innovations and contribute to economic development through green solutions.