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The UNDP, ITFA Grant Program 2025 is creating waves in Nigeria’s sustainability sector, and rightly so. With up to $50,000 in non-repayable grant funding, this initiative is a breakthrough for nature-positive Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). If you run a green business or have an idea that could regenerate natural ecosystems while generating income—this grant could fuel your growth.
Let’s be honest—most Nigerian MSMEs working on sustainable models face a huge funding wall. Banks are hesitant, interest rates are cruel, and most grants come with strings attached. The UNDP, ITFA Grant Program 2025 is designed to break that cycle.
In this article, we’ll unpack the full potential of this opportunity: what it’s about, how to apply, who can apply, how to stand out, and how to scale your nature-positive MSME to global relevance. Let’s dive in.
What Is the UNDP, ITFA Grant Program 2025 for Nature-Positive MSMEs?
The UNDP, ITFA Grant Program 2025 is a collaborative funding initiative between the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the International Trade and Forfaiting Association (ITFA). The goal is to promote green entrepreneurship in Nigeria by supporting innovative, scalable, and nature-positive business models with real-world impact.
This grant—capped at $50,000—is non-repayable and is targeted at climate-resilient MSMEs focused on biodiversity conservation, eco-friendly production, reforestation, waste-to-wealth models, and sustainable agriculture.
In simple terms: It’s free money for green businesses that make nature healthier while making people wealthier.
Who Can Apply for the UNDP, ITFA Grant Program 2025?
Let’s get straight to the core. Is your business eligible for the UNDP, ITFA Grant Program 2025?
Business Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, your MSME must:
- Be registered in Nigeria (CAC certificate required).
- Operate in a nature-positive sector, such as:
- Organic farming or regenerative agriculture
- Natural waste recycling or composting
- Eco-packaging and biodegradable solutions
- Forestry restoration or green urban planning
- Sustainable textiles or ethical fashion
- Have at least 1–3 years of business history or solid proof of concept.
- Be aligned with at least one Sustainable Development Goal (SDG)—especially SDG 13, 14, or 15.
Individual Founder Criteria
Founders should:
- Be Nigerian nationals or residents.
- Be over 18 years old.
- Demonstrate strong entrepreneurial leadership and impact vision.
Note: Startups with strong pilots, MVPs, or traction metrics—even if not profitable yet—are encouraged to apply.
Why the UNDP, ITFA Grant Program 2025 Is a Big Deal
The UNDP, ITFA Grant Program 2025 isn’t just about cash—it’s a comprehensive scale-up platform for green entrepreneurs.
What Makes This Program Different?
- Equity-Free: Unlike venture funding, you keep full ownership of your company.
- Sustainability-Centric: Focused on solving climate and biodiversity issues while empowering local economies.
- Global Exposure: Selected MSMEs may get featured in global development forums, ITFA summits, or UNDP investor roadshows.
- Capacity Building: Winners get access to sustainability training, compliance advisory, and supply chain mentorship.
💬 In a country like Nigeria where climate-focused businesses struggle for visibility, this grant is a lifeline and a spotlight.
What Does the UNDP, ITFA Grant Program 2025 Cover?
So how exactly does the $50,000 get used? Here’s a closer look.
Eligible Uses of Grant Funds
| Fund Usage Area | Description |
|---|---|
| Product Development | Prototyping, certifications, or R&D for eco-products |
| Marketing & Visibility | Branding, packaging, green certification labeling |
| Infrastructure | Greenhouses, solar installations, eco-warehouses |
| Team Expansion | Hiring of local employees for sustainable operations |
| Tech Integration | Supply chain tools, waste-tracking software, carbon calculators |
What It Does Not Cover
- Non-nature-focused ventures (fintech, edtech, generic e-commerce)
- Salaries for non-project personnel
- Alcohol, gambling, or any environmentally harmful enterprise
🧠 The goal is to use the funds as a lever—not a lifeboat. Show how you’ll multiply impact, not just survive.
Key Dates for UNDP, ITFA Grant Program 2025
Mark these on your calendar:
| Stage | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | June 2025 |
| Application Deadline | 31 August 2025 |
| Shortlisting & Interviews | September 2025 |
| Winner Announcement | October 2025 |
| Grant Disbursement | Q4 2025 |
| Mentorship Phase Begins | November 2025 – March 2026 |
READ ALSO: Young ICIMOD Professionals Programme 2025
How to Apply for the UNDP, ITFA Grant Program 2025
Here’s how to confidently submit your application and stand out.
Required Documents
- CAC Registration Certificate
- Business Pitch Deck (10–12 slides)
- One-page Business Model Canvas
- Financial statements or projections
- A 90-second video pitch (optional but impactful)
Submission Portal
All applications must be submitted via the UNDP Nigeria Grant Portal:
👉 https://www.ng.undp.org
(Check “Open Calls for MSMEs” section.)
Selection Criteria
Your application will be assessed based on:
- Sustainability and environmental impact
- Scalability and market fit
- Innovation and feasibility
- Inclusion and gender impact
- Clarity and passion in pitch materials
What Makes a Nature-Positive MSME Stand Out in 2025
Here’s what the grant panel is really looking for:
Measurable Environmental Impact
- Can your business sequester carbon, conserve water, or reduce plastic?
- Have you planted trees, restored land, or saved energy?
Inclusive Growth
- Do you employ women, rural dwellers, or youth?
- Are you creating income in underserved regions?
Business Viability
- Are your unit economics sustainable?
- Do you have paying customers or clear market validation?
Communication Clarity
- Do you explain what you do in plain English?
- Can your grandma understand your pitch? No jargon!
Common Mistakes to Avoid in UNDP, ITFA Grant Program 2025 Applications
Here’s how not to ruin your shot at $50,000:
- Submitting generic proposals with no clear environmental impact.
- Using fluffy language without data (e.g., “we’re the Uber of green”).
- Missing documents or uploading corrupt files.
- Overpromising (“we’ll plant 1 million trees in 6 months”).
Fix: Focus on impact over hype. Simplicity wins.
FAQs – UNDP, ITFA Grant Program 2025
1: Is this only for Nigerian companies?
Yes, applicants must be legally registered in Nigeria.
2: Can I apply if I’m a new business?
Yes, startups with an MVP or solid proof of concept can apply.
3: Do I repay the grant?
No, it’s a non-repayable grant, not a loan or equity.
4: Can I apply again if I applied last year?
Yes—especially if your business has improved or pivoted since.
Final Thoughts: Why the UNDP, ITFA Grant Program 2025 Is Your Best Shot at Scaling Green Impact
The UNDP, ITFA Grant Program 2025 is one of the most MSME-friendly, impact-driven grant opportunities available in Nigeria right now. Whether you’re building organic compost for farms or upcycling tires into eco-friendly furniture, this grant could help you scale beyond your community.
It’s not just a fund—it’s a megaphone for the right businesses to be heard, seen, and grown.
So if your business heals the land, empowers people, and earns money—this is your call to action.
Get those documents ready and apply before 31 August 2025.
