For early-stage entrepreneurs across Nigeria, securing non-dilutive capital to de-risk operations and transition from initial launch to sustainable scale remains a central bottleneck. While early-stage venture capital funds often seek rapid software-driven growth, traditional micro-SMEs building tangible products and services need patient funding combined with operational training.
Addressing this gap, the Grooming Endowment Trust (GET) has officially opened applications for GET Compass Cohort 5. The grant initiative is designed to back early-stage small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) with equity-free capital, technical guidance, and structured business development.
Program Structure and Core Value Offerings
The GET Compass program combines direct cash grants with capacity-building frameworks to help founders strengthen business processes, increase production, and expand market access.
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Non-Dilutive Funding: Selected ventures receive up to ₦2 million in grant support, requiring no equity surrender or debt obligation.
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Capacity Building: Grantees undergo business development training, skill workshops, and tailored operational guidance.
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Expert Mentorship: Founders are paired with industry advisors to refine business models, optimize financial management, and prepare for long-term capitalization.
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Physical Immersion: Selected founders participate in an intensive two-week physical training workshop hosted in Lagos.
Eligibility and Assessment Criteria
To ensure capital and training reach viable early-stage businesses, GET Compass maintains a clear set of eligibility parameters:
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Founder Age: Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
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Venture Maturity: The business must be early-stage, with operational history not exceeding three years.
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Legal Registration: Businesses must be registered and active, backed by official documentation (such as CAC or local government registration).
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Proof of Going Concern: Applicants must demonstrate continuous operational activity and verifiable business traction.
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Workshop Commitment: Founders must commit to attending the mandatory two-week physical program in Lagos.
Capital Allocation in the Broader Ecosystem
Endowed with seed funding from Grooming Centre, the Grooming Endowment Trust focuses on social impact, economic mobility, and enterprise development. Through initiatives like GET Compass and GET Accelerated, the Trust has deployed non-dilutive awards and program-related investments to dozens of early-stage innovators across key sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, retail, and technology.
By coupling equity-free capital with rigorous operational workshops, GET Compass targets the survival rate of early-stage Nigerian enterprises, helping them navigate early inflation pressures, supply chain logistics, and customer acquisition.
Key Timelines and Application Portal
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Applications Opened: July 23, 2026
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Applications Close: August 20, 2026
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Application Portal: Direct submissions and detailed program information are available via the official GET Grant Programs Portal.
