The Deji Alli ARM Young Talent Award (DAAYTA) 2026 is now open for applications, offering a unique and life-changing opportunity for young Nigerian entrepreneurs to access significant funding, world-class mentorship, and structured business development support. With a total funding value of ₦12,000,000, this award is designed to help early-stage and growing businesses move from promising ideas to sustainable, high-impact enterprises.
DAAYTA targets entrepreneurs with innovative, scalable, and socially impactful business ideas—solutions that not only generate profit but also address real economic and social challenges in Nigeria. Beyond financial support, the programme equips winners with the practical skills, strategic guidance, and professional networks needed to build resilient businesses in today’s competitive environment.
Established in honour of Deji Alli, the founding Chief Executive Officer of Asset & Resource Management Company (ARM), the award represents ARM’s long-standing commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and youth empowerment. DAAYTA reflects ARM’s belief that Nigeria’s economic growth depends on nurturing bold, ethical, and forward-thinking entrepreneurs who can create jobs, drive innovation, and deliver lasting social value.
What sets DAAYTA apart is its holistic approach to entrepreneurship development. Award recipients do not only receive funding; they are immersed in a carefully designed entrepreneurial journey that includes formal business education, intensive acceleration support, and access to seasoned industry experts. This combination ensures that beneficiaries are well-equipped to scale their ventures, attract future investment, and become credible leaders within Nigeria’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
By investing in young talent, DAAYTA continues to build a strong pipeline of next-generation business leaders and change-makers who can contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s long-term economic development. For ambitious entrepreneurs ready to grow their ventures, refine their strategy, and amplify their impact, the DAAYTA 2026 award offers a powerful platform to turn vision into reality.
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Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the DAAYTA 2026 award, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
- Be a citizen of Nigeria
- Be between 18 and 35 years old
- Submit an application that is entirely original
- Have a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) with existing customers
- Own a limited liability company duly incorporated in Nigeria
- Operate the business on a full-time basis
- Commit to being physically present for the entrepreneurial education programme at the Enterprise Development Centre (EDC), Pan-Atlantic University, Lagos
- Be available (physically or virtually) for the 5-month acceleration programme
- Be able to cover travel and other associated costs, if required
- Be virtually available (with co-founders or team members where applicable) for:
- A 2-day Pitch Workshop (April 15–16, 2026)
- The Final Pitch Event (April 17, 2026)
- Demonstrate a clear understanding of ARM’s business values
- Be willing to serve as an ARM Ambassador
⚠️ Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next stages of the programme.
Benefits of the DAAYTA 2026 Award
DAAYTA is more than a cash grant—it is a transformational entrepreneurial journey. The 2026 winner will receive ₦12,000,000 spread over one year, to support:
- Development and refinement of a strong, scalable business plan
- Completion of a Certificate in Entrepreneurial Education at Pan-Atlantic University’s Enterprise Development Centre (EDC)
- Participation in a 5-month acceleration programme at a leading innovation hub in Lagos
- Access to expert mentorship, business advisory support, and networking opportunities
How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply successfully:
- Visit the official application page: daayta-2026-call-for-application
- Complete the online application form with accurate personal and business details
- Clearly describe your business idea, MVP, traction, and social impact
- Submit all required information before the January 12, 2026 deadline
- Prepare for possible shortlisting, pitch workshops, and interviews
Tip: Clearly articulate your business impact, scalability, and alignment with ARM’s values—strong storytelling and evidence of traction can significantly boost your chances.