the Chris Inspires Youth Innovation Challenge (CIYIC)
The Chris Inspires Care Foundation, a youth-focused non-governmental organisation committed to youth development, leadership, and community upliftment, has announced the launch of the Chris Inspires Youth Innovation Challenge (CIYIC) a ₦1,000,000 Youth Innovation & Impact Challenge targeted at Nigerian youths and students in tertiary institutions across the country.
The initiative, which opens for applications on 6th January, 2026, is designed to provide young Nigerians with a structured platform to showcase innovative ideas, pitch early-stage ventures, receive expert feedback, and compete for financial and developmental support aimed at transforming ideas into sustainable and impactful solutions.
CIYIC seeks to identify bold, creative, and solution-driven ideas capable of addressing real-life challenges, stimulating economic growth, and creating measurable social impact within communities. Beyond funding, the programme offers participants access to mentorship, industry exposure, visibility, and valuable networking opportunities with professionals, entrepreneurs, and development leaders.
Speaking on the initiative, Chris Akpa, Founder of Chris Inspires Care Foundation, stated:
“We believe that Nigerian youths are not lacking in ideas, but often lack access to the right platforms, mentorship, and resources. Through CIYIC, we are creating an opportunity for young people to confidently present their ideas and receive tangible support to bring their visions to life.”
— Chris Akpa, Founder
The winner of the competition will receive a ₦1,000,000 cash prize, while shortlisted participants will benefit from mentorship, professional guidance, and strategic networking opportunities designed to support long-term growth and impact.
Eligibility
- • Open to Nigerian youths aged 18–35 years
- • Applicants may be undergraduates, postgraduates, recent graduates, or young startup founders
- • Participants may present an innovative business idea, social enterprise concept, or early-stage venture
- • Individuals and teams are eligible to apply
- • Shortlisted applicants must be available to participate in the final pitch session, which may be held physically or virtually
Selection Criteria
Applications will be assessed based on:
- • Originality and creativity
- • Feasibility, scalability, and sustainability
- • Potential social and/or economic impact
- • Clarity of the business or project model
- • Ability to clearly communicate vision, execution strategy, and use of funds
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to pitch before a panel of experts and reviewers as part of the final selection process.
How to Apply
Interested applicants are required to follow the steps below:
- 1. Create a two-minute video pitch and 1–2 page Concept Note, clearly detailing:
- - Your idea or business operations
- - Key metrics (where applicable)
- - How you intend to utilise the grant
- 2. Visit: https://chrisinspirescare.org/award/
- 3. Complete and submit the application form
Early submission is strongly encouraged, as participation slots are limited.
Application Timeline
- • Applications Open: 6th January, 2026
- • Applications Close: 10th March, 2026
- • Final Pitch & Prize Award Ceremony: 20th March, 2026
🚀 Ready? Let’s Go!
Don’t miss your chance to take that idea off paper and into the world.