The MTN Foundation officially opened applications for Phase 7 of its flagship ICT and Business Skills Training initiative, designed to empower 6,000 young Nigerian entrepreneurs across selected states. With digital transformation reshaping the African commerce landscape, this program bridges the gap between traditional micro-enterprises and the modern digital economy by offering practical, high-impact training.
The application window for the 2025 cohort closed on 3 October 2025. This complete guide details everything about the programme—including state eligibility criteria, core training focus areas, the ₦300 million equipment grant, and strategic steps to position your enterprise for the Phase 8 application cycle.
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MTN ICT and Business Skills Training Summary
| Scholarship Name ⇒ | MTN ICT and Business Skills Training (Phase 7) |
| Host Country ⇒ | Nigeria |
| Study Level ⇒ | Training |
| Benefits ⇒ | 5-week blended training, data allowance, certificate of completion, and share of ₦300 million equipment grant for top 600 performers |
| Funded By ⇒ | MTN Foundation |
| Eligible Countries ⇒ | Nigeria (selected states: FCT Abuja, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Enugu, Ondo, Plateau, Sokoto, Taraba) |
| Application Deadline ⇒ | 2025 cycle closed 3 October 2025. Watch for Phase 8 opening — August 2026. |
About the Programme
The MTN ICT & Business Skills Training is a youth empowerment initiative designed to strengthen early-stage micro-businesses across Nigeria. Delivered through a combination of self-paced digital modules, live virtual classes, and expert-led masterclasses, Phase 7 focuses on building long-term operational and technical capacity. The curriculum centers on three foundational pillars:
- Digital Tools & Operational Efficiency: Introducing business owners to cloud platforms, software solutions, and digital management tools to streamline daily operations.
- Financial & Business Planning: Building core competence in bookkeeping, cash flow tracking, customer relationship management, and long-term business strategy.
- Digital Marketing & Visibility: Teaching practical techniques for online branding, e-commerce integration, and using social media platforms to expand customer reach.
Selection Process & Equipment Grant Breakdown
Participation in the programme is structured across two distinct evaluation phases:
- Initial Selection (6,000 Trainees): Applicants who meet the age, location, and operational criteria are enrolled into the 5-week virtual training scheme.
- Grant Assessment (Top 600 Participants): Throughout the 4 weeks of coursework and 1 week of masterclasses, performance and attendance are monitored. The top 600 participants who demonstrate exceptional business potential and high course completion scores receive a share of the ₦300 million equipment grant to purchase tangible tools and operational machinery for their enterprise.
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MTN ICT and Business Skills Training Benefits
- 5-Week Capacity Training: Access 4 weeks of blended online learning plus 1 week of intensive expert masterclasses.
- Data Allowance: Participants receive internet data support to ensure uninterrupted participation in online modules.
- Official Certification: A verified certificate of completion is awarded to participants who finish all required coursework.
- Equipment Grant: Top 600 graduating participants earn direct grant funding totaling ₦300 million distributed as equipment support.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for consideration in this scheme, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Age Limit: Must be between 18 and 35 years old at the time of application.
- Business Age: Must own and manage an operational micro-business that has been active for no longer than 2 years.
- State Location: The enterprise must be physically located in one of the eight phase-designated locations: Abuja (FCT), Bauchi, Bayelsa, Enugu, Ondo, Plateau, Sokoto, or Taraba.
- Program Commitment: Must commit fully to the 5-week blended training schedule.
- Hardware & Connectivity: Must possess a functional smartphone, tablet, or laptop computer with reliable internet access.
Required Documents for the MTN ICT and Business Skills Training
Having these items ready simplifies the registration process when the application portal reopens:
- Valid government-issued photo ID (National Identity Number slip/card, Permanent Voter’s Card, Driver’s License, or International Passport).
- Business profile details stating sector, address, and exact date operations commenced.
- Proof of business location within an eligible state (such as a utility bill, location receipt, or verifiable physical address details).
- Personal contact details including active email and phone number linked to your NIN.
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How to Prepare for Phase 8
Because the 2025 application window has closed, young business owners should prepare their records for the upcoming Phase 8 cycle, typically announced in mid-3rd quarter.
- Verify Enterprise Operating Duration: Keep track of your business start date; ensure your micro-business remains within the under-2-years window when the portal opens.
- Organise Location Verification: Ensure you have clear proof that your business operates within one of the targeted states.
- Draft a Concise Business Summary: Outline your business model, customer base, and current equipment needs so you can complete the online form efficiently.
- Monitor Official Channels: Follow the official MTN Foundation portal to apply promptly as soon as Phase 8 registration goes live.
Application Deadline
The 2025 Phase 7 application cycle closed on 3 October 2025.
MTN Foundation typically announces the next training phase between August and September each year. Prospective applicants are advised to prepare their verification documents in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a registered company (CAC) to apply?
The program targets early-stage micro-businesses under 2 years of age. While formal business details must be provided on the portal, having an unregistered micro-business does not automatically disqualify you, provided you can prove active operation and physical location in an eligible state.
Is the ₦300 million grant paid in cash?
No. The grant fund is distributed to the top 600 overall performers as an equipment grant, providing physical tools, machinery, and business assets tailored to help scale each micro-enterprise.
Can I participate if my business is located outside the 8 listed states?
No. Phase 7 was strictly restricted to micro-businesses located in Abuja (FCT), Bauchi, Bayelsa, Enugu, Ondo, Plateau, Sokoto, and Taraba. MTN Foundation rotates target states across different program phases.
Will I receive data for the online classes?
Yes. MTN Foundation provides data support to selected participants to cover the internet bandwidth required for the virtual training sessions and online modules.
Disclaimer: All scholarship details, deadlines, award values, and eligibility criteria in this post were verified from official sources as of August 2026. Information is subject to change without notice. Always confirm the latest details directly on the official MTN Foundation website before submitting your application. ScholarWaka is not affiliated with MTN Foundation.
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