Do you run a creative business in Nigeria, such as fashion, baking, photography, crafts or beauty? The Fegho Umunubo Foundation has opened applications for the second cohort of its Grassroots Creative Business Support Initiative (GCBSI 2.0). Selected businesses will receive grants of ₦1 million to ₦1.5 million, plus practical business training. Applications close on November 1, 2026.
About the Grassroots Creative Business Support Initiative
GCBSI supports small creative businesses at the grassroots level. It combines cash grants with hands-on training, so owners can run their businesses better, manage money well and reach more customers.
The first edition supported 22 businesses with grants of ₦500,000 to ₦1 million in February 2026. The second edition raises the grant range to ₦1 million–₦1.5 million.
Benefits of GCBSI 2.0
- Business grants of ₦1,000,000 to ₦1,500,000
- Training in marketing, bookkeeping, pricing and financial literacy
- Business support to improve operations, reach more customers and grow sustainably
Eligible Creative Sectors
- Media, film and entertainment
- Fashion, clothing, textiles and accessories
- Handmade products, arts and crafts
- Furniture, interior design and creative design
- Beauty and personal styling
- Photography, videography, printing and visual branding
- Food production, baking and creative confectionery
- Home fragrance businesses
Who Can Apply? Eligibility Requirements
- Creative entrepreneurs and businesses operating in Nigeria
- Working in one of the sectors listed above
- A CAC registration number, which the form requires, so your business should be registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission
The form also asks which state your business operates in and how long you have been running it.
Application Deadline
Applications opened on October 1, 2026, and close on November 1, 2026.
How to Apply for the Fegho Umunubo Foundation GCBSI 2.0
- Record a one-minute video introducing your business and explaining why you need the grant.
- Post the video on Instagram with the hashtag #GCBSI.
- Fill in the official GCBSI 2.0 application form with your name, phone, email, business name, CAC number, state and years in business.
- Submit before November 1, 2026.
Stay safe: applying is free. Never pay anyone who promises to help you win the grant, and do not share bank PINs or passwords. Only use the official form and the #GCBSI hashtag.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Keep your video short and lively. Show your products or your workspace.
- Say exactly what you will do with the money, for example “buy a second sewing machine”.
- Mention how many people you employ or train.
- Make sure your CAC number is correct before you submit.
Key Details at a Glance
- Organiser: Fegho Umunubo Foundation
- Programme: Grassroots Creative Business Support Initiative (GCBSI 2.0)
- Grant: ₦1 million – ₦1.5 million, plus training
- Who: CAC-registered creative businesses in Nigeria
- Extra step: One-minute Instagram video with #GCBSI
- Deadline: November 1, 2026
