Frequently Asked Questions

NLNG VIBES (Vocational, Innovation & Business Empowerment Scheme) is an entrepreneurship development programme for micro and small business owners in NLNG host and pipeline communities.

The programme provides:

• Business & management training
• One-on-one mentorship
• A competitive Pitch-a-thon
• Business support grants for top performers

You are eligible if you:

• Are 25–45 years old
• Are an indigene of an NLNG host or pipeline community
• Own and operate a micro or small business
• Are not in paid employment (full-time or part-time)

Yes. Registered and unregistered businesses can apply.

Unregistered businesses must show proof of active operations (e.g. production photos, receipts, customer records).

No. Minimum requirement is SSCE/WASSCE, but applicants with OND, HND, BSc or higher may apply.

No. VIBES is only for self-employed entrepreneurs whose business is their primary source of income.

No. VIBES 2026 is open to all eligible entrepreneurs, whether or not they have attended previous NLNG programmes.

Visit www.nlngvibes.com and complete the online application form.

Upload the required documents and submit before the deadline (January 31st 2026).

You will need:

• Valid means of identification
• Proof of age (if not shown on ID)
• Proof of community origin
• CAC certificate or business operation evidence

Additional documents are required only for selected participants.

Shortlisted applicants will be notified by SMS and email after the screening process.

You may reapply in future cycles if you remain eligible.

1. Application & Screening
2. Selection into Training
3. Business Development Training
4. Mentorship
5. Pitch-a-thon
6. Grant support for top performers
7. Alumni engagement

(Timelines will be communicated to selected applicants.)

Training and mentorship span several weeks.

Exact dates will be communicated to selected participants.

Yes. All programme costs are covered by NLNG.

Participants may handle their own accommodation and logistics as communicated.

A competitive pitching event where participants present their business strategy to a panel of judges.

Top-scoring entrepreneurs become eligible for business support grants.

A selected number of top performers receive grants each cycle, depending on overall performance and programme capacity.

Top performers may receive grants up to FIVE MILLION NAIRA, subject to programme requirements and verification.

No. Grants are non-repayable, but must be used strictly for approved business purposes.

After Pitch-a-thon selection and completion of all required documentation.

(Details are shared directly with successful candidates.)

Examples include:

• Equipment
• Raw materials / inventory
• Production improvements
• Business tools
• Other approved growth needs

Specific guidelines are given to grant recipients.

Training covers:

• Business modelling
• Financial management
• Marketing & branding
• Operations planning
• Record-keeping
• Customer management
• Digital skills, Etc

Participants are paired with:

• Business mentors
• Industry professionals
• Advisors who provide accountability and guidance

Yes. You will engage with peers, experts, and the wider VIBES ecosystem.

Beneficiaries take part in follow-ups, mentor check-ins, and periodic reviews.

(Internal systems such as dashboards and compliance tools are not public.)

A community for ongoing learning, opportunities, and support after completing the programme.

Yes. VIBES promotes:

• Poverty reduction
• Job creation
• Sustainable local business growth
• Community development

No. Grants are awarded only to top performers based on pitching results and programme requirements.

Yes. Selected participants must sign the Programme Agreement and other required documents before grant disbursement.

For enquiries, you can contact us through:

• Email: support@nlngvibes.com
• Website: www.nlngvibes.com
• Phone: +234 810 012 2122