The Feeding the Next Billion Food Innovation Fellowship is a transformative five-day residential programme designed to equip young Nigerian innovators with practical skills in food value addition and agribusiness development. Organised by Farm Central Intelligence (FarmCI), the fellowship is supported by UNESCO and Nestlé through the “Because You Matter” programme, with technical expertise from Soilless Farm Lab. The initiative directly addresses two pressing challenges in Nigeria: food waste and youth unemployment, while strengthening local food systems and promoting economic empowerment. Programme Overview The fellowship delivers intensive, hands-on training focused on transforming raw agricultural produce—particularly: Vegetables Spices Peppers into high-value, market-ready products. Participants gain practical knowledge in: Food processing and preservation Packaging and branding Product development Basic business management Sustainable production practices By reducing post-harvest losses and promoting value addition, the programme contributes to national food security and fosters resilient local economies. Focus on Inclusion and Regional Impact The fellowship actively encourages applications from young people residing in: Lagos State Ogun State Oyo State The initiative is committed to building a diverse and inclusive network of food entrepreneurs capable of driving innovation and job creation across their communities. Feeding the Next Billion Food Innovation Fellowship: What Fellows Receive Selected participants benefit from a comprehensive support package designed to jumpstart their entrepreneurial journey. 1. Fully Sponsored Residential Training Five-day intensive residential programme Accommodation and meals covered Training materials provided The training takes place at Soilless Farm Lab in Ogun State. 2. Transportation Support Financial assistance for travel to and from the training venue in Ogun State 3. Hands-On Training and Mentorship Direct guidance from experts at Farm Central Intelligence Technical insights from Soilless Farm Lab Practical workshops and applied learning sessions 4. Starter Kit Each fellow receives a personalised starter kit containing essential tools and materials needed to begin their food value addition business immediately after the programme. 5. Networking Opportunities Participants join a vibrant ecosystem of: Fellow innovators Industry professionals Programme partners This network fosters collaboration, peer learning, and long-term partnerships. 6. Certificate of Completion Fellows receive formal recognition for successfully completing the programme. 7. Post-Programme Support Continued mentorship Business development guidance Follow-up support to track progress and document success stories Feeding the Next Billion Food Innovation Fellowship Timeline: A Step-by-Step Journey The programme is structured into four key phases to ensure clarity, engagement, and long-term impact. Phase 1: Application and Selection This phase begins with the official call for applications. Prospective fellows: Submit their applications Undergo a structured review process Receive notification upon successful selection Only shortlisted candidates proceed to the next stage. Phase 2: Pre-Fellowship Onboarding Selected fellows receive: Detailed onboarding information Preparation guidelines Programme expectations This ensures participants are fully prepared for the immersive residential experience in Ogun State. Phase 3: The 5-Day Residential Fellowship The core of the programme takes place at Soilless Farm Lab. During this intensive training, fellows: Participate in practical processing sessions Learn packaging and branding techniques Develop market-ready food products Engage in mentorship sessions Build entrepreneurial and leadership skills The experience is designed to transform both technical capabilities and business confidence. Phase 4: Post-Fellowship Growth and Support Upon completing the residential training, fellows: Receive their starter kits Obtain a Certificate of Completion Begin implementing their business ideas Ongoing mentorship and monitoring ensure that participants can effectively launch and grow sustainable food enterprises. Specific dates for each phase are communicated directly to selected participants. Feeding the Next Billion Food Innovation Fellowship: Why This Fellowship Matters Nigeria faces significant challenges in food loss and youth unemployment. By empowering young innovators with practical skills in food processing and agribusiness, the Feeding the Next Billion Fellowship: Reduces post-harvest losses Promotes local manufacturing Strengthens food security Encourages entrepreneurship Creates employment opportunities The programme cultivates a new generation of food entrepreneurs capable of driving sustainable economic growth and building resilient food systems within their communities. How to Apply Interested applicants must complete the official online application form. Applicants are advised to carefully review eligibility requirements and submit accurate information before the deadline. The Feeding the Next Billion Food Innovation Fellowship offers more than training—it provides a launchpad for young Nigerians ready to transform agricultural produce into profitable, sustainable businesses that can help feed the next billion. For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering the scholarships. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.