Grooming centre to award N20m research grants to 150 university students

Research projects with the potential to lift people out of poverty are also eligible for consideration.

“In addition to the designated focus areas for research proposals, the following criteria will serve as the basis for evaluating all submissions,” Chukwuekem said.

He stressed that the programme was intended to support research that could translate academic knowledge into practical interventions and solutions.

Applications Open Until October 23

The 2026 application window opened on August 31 and will close on October 23, allowing eligible students to submit their research proposals for consideration.

The scheme is expected to provide financial support and recognition for innovative academic work while encouraging students in Nigerian tertiary institutions to pursue research with practical relevance to society.

The Grooming Centre University Grant Scheme has, since its establishment, sought to promote research and innovation among students by recognising academic projects that address pressing development challenges.

The 2026 edition will therefore focus on identifying undergraduate and postgraduate research with potential to contribute to financial inclusion, enterprise development, technological advancement, youth and women empowerment, and broader poverty-reduction efforts.