Following its official launch in January 2026, the Resilient and Inclusive Agri-Food Systems Empowering Women and Youth in Nigeria (RISE) project is now entering its operational phase, with a strong focus on engaging and supporting agribusinesses across Northern Nigeria.

 

RISE is a five-year initiative supported by Global Affairs Canada and implemented by Mennonite Economic Development Associates(MEDA) in partnership with Sahel Consulting, Development Exchange Centre, Emeraid Capital, Extension Africa, Women in Business Forum, and the Federation of Muslim Women’s Associations in Nigeria.

 

The project aims to strengthen agri-food systems in Bauchi, Kaduna, and Kano States by addressing key constraints across the rice, maize, soybean, and groundnut value chains, while promoting inclusive economic growth.

 

As part of this next phase, the programme is launching its Expression of Interest (EOI) process, inviting women and youth-led micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to apply for targeted financial and technical support, with the objective of scaling businesses, creating decent jobs, and building more resilient and climate-smart agri-food systems.

According to RISE Project Manager, Maxwell Olitsa, “Northern Nigeria has no shortage of hardworking agripreneurs; what has been missing is a funding model that meets them where they are.

He expects that RISE is not offering a conventional loan with conditions attached; it is offering a genuine partnership, and we are looking for women and youth agribusinesses that are ready to grow.”

 

Olitsa said that eligible businesses can now apply for non-repayable, cost-shared financial support and targeted technical assistance under a new package of smart (financial and non-financial) incentives.

 

He said, ‘The programme prioritises women-owned or women-led MSMEs and youth-owned or youth-led MSMEs (aged 18–35). Male-owned businesses are also eligible where at least 30% of staff or leadership are women, or where the business directly serves women and youth. All applicants must be registered businesses or cooperatives with a minimum of two years in operation, at least two employees, and a demonstrated commitment to climate-smart practices and gender inclusion. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and registration is free”.

 

 

Olitsa observed that under this support package, the Matching Award supports MSMEs by covering up to 50 percent of investment costs, with the business contributing the remaining share.

 

He noted that the Circular Economy Award rewards businesses that adopt sustainable practices, such as reducing emissions and recycling waste, through performance-based support.