1. What is NLNG VIBES?

NLNG VIBES (Vocational, Innovation, Business and Empowerment Scheme) is an innovative incubation programme designed for young entrepreneurs from NLNG host communities. It builds on previous initiatives such as the NLNG Youth Empowerment Scheme and Bonny Vocational Centre, offering vocational training, mentorship, networking opportunities, and up to $1,300 in funding to help scale and sustain their businesses.

2. Who is eligible to apply?

You are eligible if you are a young entrepreneur (ages 18–35) from an NLNG host community, a former beneficiary of the Youth Empowerment Scheme or Bonny Vocational Centre, and currently operating an innovative business related to your vocational training. Businesses that address local challenges with sustainable solutions, while aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), have a competitive edge.

3. What are the key phases of the NLNG VIBES programme?

The programme is structured into six main stages:
1. Community Engagement & Application Process (Jan – Feb 2025):
• Targeted sensitization and adverts through community leadership.
• Launching an online application portal for YES and BVC beneficiaries across 110 host communities.
2. Participant Selection (Feb – Mar 2025):
• Applicants are selected based on prior business performance post-training.
• A Virtual Training and Screening Week will shortlist 100 candidates.
3. Business Management Training (Apr 28 – May 23, 2025):
• A one-month intensive workshop focusing on business development, management, marketing, and strategic planning, starting with an elaborate opening ceremony.
4. Pitch-a-Thon Event (May 22-23, 2025):
• 100 participants pitch their business ideas to a panel of judges, with the top 50 selected for further support.
5. Mentorship and Coaching (June – Sept 2025):
• Successful beneficiaries are assigned to brand promoters and vocational coaches for hands-on guidance over a 4-month period.
6. Funding, Monitoring & Evaluation (Sept – Dec 2025):
• Grants are disbursed in two tranches.
• Ongoing monitoring and evaluation are conducted, culminating in a graduation ceremony and the launch of the VIBES Alumni Network.

4. What training and support does NLNG VIBES offer?

Participants receive comprehensive business training, which includes courses on financial management, marketing, strategic planning, and more. The programme provides personalized advisory services, structured mentorship from seasoned business professionals, and practical, participative training designed to build robust technical and managerial capacity.

5. How are participants selected?

Applicants are evaluated based on a set of criteria including innovativeness, consistency, social impact, sustainability, and marketability. An online application portal has been developed to streamline this process. A Virtual Training and Screening Week is used to shortlist 100 candidates based on their business performance after YES/BVC training, followed by a pitch-a-thon event to select the top 50 for further support.

6. What funding opportunities are available?

Participants in the top 50 will receive a grant of $1,300, disbursed in two tranches. This funding is intended to help scale their business and is part of a broader support system that includes mentorship, networking, and additional advisory services.

7. What kind of mentorship and networking support is provided?

The programme partners beneficiaries with experienced mentors, brand promoters, and vocational coaches. They offer guidance on business growth, market strategy, and technical improvements. Networking opportunities are provided to connect participants with local and global stakeholders, investors, and industry experts.

8. How is the programme’s impact monitored and evaluated?

NLNG VIBES includes a robust monitoring and evaluation (M&E) framework. Key performance indicators (KPIs) such as business growth, job creation, and community impact are tracked. Regular progress reports, stakeholder meetings, and an annual impact evaluation help ensure the programme remains effective and sustainable. A live dashboard is also used for real-time monitoring.

9. What is the VIBES Alumni Network?

The VIBES Alumni Network is designed to provide ongoing mentorship, networking, and support after the completion of the programme. It serves as a platform for continued engagement, helping past beneficiaries to share experiences and access further opportunities.

10. How do I apply?

Visit www.nlngvibes.com to complete your application through our dedicated online portal. Make sure to follow the application instructions and submit all required documents before the deadline (second week of March 2025).

11. What if I am not selected?

While not every applicant will be selected initially, feedback will be provided, and you may have opportunities to reapply in future rounds. We also encourage you to join our VIBES Alumni Network for continuous learning and future opportunities.

12. How does NLNG VIBES contribute to sustainable development?

NLNG VIBES aims to eradicate poverty and build sustainable livelihoods by empowering young entrepreneurs to create impactful, innovative solutions for local challenges. This aligns with the UN SDGs and supports broader community development through continuous training, mentorship, and strategic partnerships.