Call for Applications: VACE Project Supports Agri-Food SMEs to Develop New Ginger and Tomato Products in Nigeria (2026) ·Food SMEs to Develop New Ginger and Tomato Products in Nigeria (2026)

The Value Chain for Agribusiness, Climate and Employment (VACE) Project has opened applications for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), food processors, agri-food businesses, and product innovators interested in developing new products from ginger, tomato, and their by-products.

The opportunity is designed to support businesses in Nigeria’s agricultural and food processing sector by providing technical assistance, market exposure, and business development support to help entrepreneurs expand their operations and introduce innovative products to the market.

Women-led and youth-led enterprises are especially encouraged to apply.

The application deadline is Friday, 7 August 2026.

About the VACE Project Opportunity

The Value Chain for Agribusiness, Climate and Employment (VACE) Project is seeking innovative businesses working within the agri-food sector that are ready to improve their products, strengthen their market position, and create new value from agricultural resources.

Selected businesses will receive support to transform ginger, tomato, and related by-products into commercially viable products while improving their competitiveness within local and broader markets.

The initiative targets businesses that have practical experience in food processing and are interested in launching at least one new product.

Benefits for Selected SMEs

Successful applicants will receive access to several forms of support aimed at strengthening business growth and product innovation.

Benefits include:

Technical Product Development Support

Participating businesses will receive technical guidance to support the creation and improvement of new products made from ginger, tomato, or their by-products.

Support may include:

• Product development assistance.
• Innovation guidance.
• Improvement of recipes and processing methods.
• Support in preparing products for market entry.

Market Exhibition Opportunities

Selected SMEs will have opportunities to showcase their products to potential buyers, investors, and other industry stakeholders.

This exposure can help businesses:

• Increase visibility.
• Build new partnerships.
• Connect with potential customers.
• Explore new market opportunities.

Business Development Support Services

Entrepreneurs will also receive business development support to strengthen their operations and improve growth potential.

Support areas may include:

• Business improvement strategies.
• Market positioning.
• Enterprise growth planning.
• Strengthening commercial opportunities.

Who Can Apply?

The call is open to legally recognised businesses and innovators working in ginger and tomato processing.

Eligible applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be a legally registered business with valid registration documents and relevant permits.
• Businesses without completed registration must provide proof of an ongoing registration process or current status.
• Have at least three years of experience in ginger and tomato processing.
• Have at least one existing marketing channel for their products.
• Be willing to develop and launch at least one new product.
• Be willing to share product recipes as part of the innovation support process.

Women-owned and youth-led SMEs are strongly encouraged to submit applications.

Priority Locations

The opportunity primarily targets SMEs operating in selected Nigerian states.

Priority states include:

• Kaduna State
• Kano State
• Plateau State
• Kebbi State

Businesses located in the following areas may also be considered:

• Federal Capital Territory (Abuja)
• Lagos State

Applicants from these locations working in agri-food processing and product innovation are encouraged to apply.

Why SMEs Should Apply

The VACE Project opportunity provides entrepreneurs with a chance to strengthen their businesses through expert support, innovation assistance, and increased market access.

For food processors and agricultural entrepreneurs, developing value-added products from ginger and tomato presents an opportunity to reduce waste, improve profitability, and create stronger connections within the food value chain.

By participating, SMEs can gain valuable experience in product innovation while positioning their businesses for future growth.

Application Deadline

Interested businesses must submit their applications before:

Friday, 7 August 2026

Eligible agri-food processors, bakers, beverage producers, and product innovators working with ginger, tomato, or related agricultural products are encouraged to apply.

How to Apply:

Submit your concept note using the Concept Form attached, submit to flora.asibe@giz.de

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this programme. Please do not send applications or supporting documents to GSO. All applications should be submitted directly through the official Shelter City application platform before the stated deadline.

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