The 2026 RecycleUp Innovation Program has launched its application process. This nationwide initiative seeks to equip environmentally passionate students, researchers, entrepreneurs, and changemakers with the tools, knowledge, and support network required to address Nigeria’s waste management challenges.
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Through training, mentorship, collaborative partnerships, hands-on project implementation, and national-level advocacy for sustainable waste solutions, the program cultivates future circular economy leaders. Selected candidates will begin their journey in February 2026.
Program Overview
RecycleUp Innovation Program is a comprehensive national platform working to transform Nigeria from linear “take–make–dispose” models toward regenerative circular economy systems. The initiative targets multiple critical sectors:
- Built Environment
- Organic Material & Biowaste
- Energy
- Electronics & ICT
- Packaging & Plastics
- Textiles
- Water
- Food & Agriculture
The initiative will equip 1,000 emerging innovators and entrepreneurs nationwide with resources to develop sustainable, growth-oriented solutions while advancing circular economy practices throughout Nigeria’s 36 states.
Core Goals
- Cultivate Circular Innovation & Entrepreneurship: Provide 1,000 young people with technical expertise and business capabilities to develop scalable circular economy initiatives.
- Advance Nationwide Circular Practices: Encourage broad implementation of recycling, sustainable waste management, and circular behaviours among citizens, families, and enterprises.
- Strengthen Green Enterprises: Facilitate the development of innovative, environmentally friendly products, services, policies, and businesses that create employment and economic opportunities.
- Establish a Collaborative Ecosystem: Link entrepreneurs, researchers, industry leaders, policymakers, and mentors to enable comprehensive systemic transformation.
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Eligible Applicants
The program welcomes diverse changemakers dedicated to environmental problem-solving:
- Students
- Researchers
- Innovators
- Entrepreneurs
- Households & individuals
- Corporate and community organisations
Chosen participants will engage in a structured four-month curriculum from January through April 2026.
Qualification Requirements
Candidates must:
- Hold Nigerian citizenship and be between 21–40 years old.
- Show authentic passion for the circular economy and sustainability.
- Display leadership capabilities and dedication to community impact.
- Commit to a minimum of 5 hours per week.
- Possess dependable internet access and devices for online learning.
Program Advantages
- Professional Development: Comprehensive instruction in circular economy frameworks, sustainable waste management, and project execution.
- Certification: Graduates earn a Certificate of Excellence, enhancing their professional credentials and job prospects.
- Networking Opportunities: Connection to industry experts, policymakers, researchers, and fellow participants through workshops, conferences, and gatherings.
- Access to Training Materials: Digital learning resources and reference documentation for ongoing education.
- Awards & Recognition: Outstanding participants earn special recognition based on established performance standards.
- Business Ideation Support: Participants create business concepts informed by their projects and educational experiences.
- Visibility & Exposure: Fellows’ innovations and solutions gain exposure across multiple platforms within the sustainability community.
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Timeline & Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 17 January 2025
- Onboarding: February 2026
- Programme Duration: January – April 2026 (4 months)
Click HEREÂ to apply.
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