The Grooming Centre, a Nigerian microfinance institution, has announced the 2025 Grooming Centre University Grant Scheme, aiming to support research in areas such as financial inclusion, microfinance, rural development, social enterprise, and digital finance. Apply Now:
When is the Application Deadline:
📅 October 10, 2025
Tell Me About The Program:
The Grooming Centre University Grant Scheme is a research support initiative by Grooming People for Better Livelihood Centre (Grooming Centre), aimed at promoting innovative academic research that contributes to financial inclusion, rural development, and poverty reduction in Nigeria. Now in its 7th edition, the program supports both undergraduate and postgraduate students across Nigerian tertiary institutions.
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Which Fields are Eligible?
Research in the following areas:
- Financial Inclusion
- Microfinance
- Rural Development
- Social Enterprise
- MSMEs
- Technological Innovation
- Digital Finance
- Youth in Development
- Women in Development
- Any other research aimed at poverty alleviation in Nigeria
Type:
📘 Research Support / Academic Grant Program
Who can Apply?
🎓 Undergraduate and Postgraduate students enrolled in Nigerian universities or polytechnics, approved by the NUC or NBTE, and currently conducting relevant research in eligible fields.
How are Applicants Selected?
Applicants are evaluated based on:
- Quality and originality of research
- Relevance to Nigeria’s development needs
- Practicality and potential for impact
- Endorsement by project supervisor
- Submission of complete research concept note and profile
Which Countries Are Eligible?
Nigeria only
Where will the Program be Taken?
Within Nigerian tertiary institutions — applicants conduct research locally
How Many Participants Will Be Selected?
- 100 Undergraduate students
- 50 Postgraduate students
(150 recipients total)
What is the Benefit of the Program?
💰 ₦20 Million total in grants:
- ₦100,000 each for undergraduates
- ₦200,000 each for postgraduates
How Long Will the Program Last?
⏳ One-time research grant support, with monitoring until research completion and final report submission
How to Apply:
Applicants must submit a soft copy via the Grooming Centre website, including:
- 10–15 page research concept note
- One-page personal profile
- Signed recommendation from supervisor
- Final research report upon completion

