Applications are open for the MTN ICT & Business Skills Training Programme (Phase 8) - an MTN Foundation initiative that equips young Nigerian women who own microbusinesses with practical digital, ICT, and business skills.
Phase 8 is a five-week blended programme for about 3,000 participants. Applications close on 11 October 2026. Applying is free.
This Opportunity Station guide is original copy based on the official MTN Foundation ICT page. It is not a reprint of any third-party blog.
Quick Facts - MTN ICT & Business Skills Training Phase 8
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Programme | MTN ICT & Business Skills Training Programme (Phase 8) |
| Organiser | MTN Foundation (MTN Nigeria) |
| Duration | 5 weeks (blended learning) |
| Cohort size | About 3,000 female microbusiness owners |
| Format | Self-paced online modules, instructor-led sessions, entrepreneur masterclasses, capstone project |
| Data support | Yes - data support for learning |
| Equipment grants | Top 100 participants: up to ₦1,000,000 each from a ₦100,000,000 fund (selection not guaranteed by admission) |
| Eligible states | Rivers, Abia, Ogun, Kwara, Kano, Gombe |
| Deadline | 11 October 2026 |
| Cost | Free to apply |
| Official page | MTN Foundation - ICT programme |
| Apply | Official Phase 8 application portal |
About the Programme
Since 2018, the initiative has completed seven phases in collaboration with partners including Google, Oracle, KPMG, IBM, Digital Bridge Institute, Cisco, Meta, and Microsoft - training thousands of young microbusiness owners across many Nigerian states and the FCT.
Phase 8 continues that mission with practical, tech-driven skills so participants can apply what they learn directly to growing their businesses.
Benefits
- Five-week blended ICT and business skills training
- Self-paced online modules plus instructor-led sessions
- Masterclasses from seasoned entrepreneurs
- Capstone project challenge
- Data support for a smoother learning experience
- Chance for the top 100 participants to receive equipment grants of up to ₦1 million each (from a ₦100 million fund)
Eligibility
- Nigerian woman aged 18 - 35
- Owns and manages a microbusiness
- Business has operated for no more than 2 years
- Business located in Rivers, Abia, Ogun, Kwara, Kano, or Gombe State
How to Apply
- Read the official MTN Foundation ICT programme page.
- Confirm you meet all eligibility requirements.
- Complete the free application on the official Phase 8 portal.
- Submit before 11 October 2026. Do not pay anyone claiming they can secure selection.
Official Links
Programme overview - MTN Foundation ICT
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FAQs - MTN ICT & Business Skills Training Phase 8
When is the deadline?
11 October 2026.
Who can apply?
Nigerian women aged 18 - 35 who own and manage a microbusiness (≤2 years old) in Rivers, Abia, Ogun, Kwara, Kano, or Gombe.
Is the equipment grant guaranteed?
No. Training admission does not guarantee funding. The top 100 participants may receive grants of up to ₦1,000,000 each.
Is there an application fee?
No - applying is free. Use only the official MTN portal.
Where do I apply?
Through the official MTN Phase 8 application portal.