How To Apply For The Kes 50,000 NYOTA Mtaani Project Funding April 2025-Deadline Extended To 15th May 2025

Funding opportunities are now open at NYOTA in collaboration with World Bank. The project is set to offer kes 50,000 Business support funding each to 70 youth from each Ward across the country! The National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) Project is a transformative initiative by the Government of Kenya aimed at enhancing youth employment and income generation through apprenticeships, business support, and fostering a culture of saving. As of April 2025, applications for Cycle 1 of the NYOTA Project are open, presenting a valuable opportunity for eligible Kenyan youth to advance their entrepreneurial and employment aspirations.

News Just In : Nyota Mtaani Fund Applications Reopened 6th -12th October 2025

Understanding the NYOTA Project

The NYOTA Project is designed to address the challenges faced by Kenyan youth, particularly those with limited formal education and from marginalized backgrounds. It offers comprehensive support in areas such as:

• Apprenticeship & Employment: Providing on-the-job training and mentorship across various trades to enhance employability.
• Support for Entrepreneurship: Assisting youth in starting or expanding their businesses through training and financial support up to kes 50,000 which is given in two installments of kes 25,000 each.
• Youth Savings Initiatives: Promoting financial literacy and encouraging savings through schemes like the Haba Haba Scheme.
• Capacity Building: Equipping youth with the skills to effectively engage in government transactions and access opportunities like the Access to Government Procurement Opportunities (AGPO).

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the NYOTA Project, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Nationality: Must be a Kenyan citizen with Valid National ID.
• Age: Between 18 and 29 years old; up to 35 years for youth with disabilities registered with the National Council for Persons with Disability (NCPWD).
• Education: Should not have education beyond the Form 4 level.
• Identification: Possess a valid National Identity Card.
• SIM Registration: Have a SIM card registered in their name and linked to their National ID , Mpesa or Airtel
• Employment Status: Currently unemployed or in vulnerable employment.

It’s important to note that beneficiaries of the Kenya Youth Employment Opportunities Project (KYEOP) are not eligible to apply for the NYOTA Project.

Application Process

The NYOTA Project has streamlined its application process to ensure accessibility for all eligible youth across the country. Applications are submitted exclusively through a mobile USSD Code *254# .

Step-by-Step Application Instructions:

1. Dial the USSD Code: On your mobile phone, dial *254#.
2. Select the NYOTA Project Option: From the menu displayed, choose the “NYOTA Project” option.
3. Follow the Prompts: Complete the application by following the on-screen prompts, ensuring that all information provided matches your National ID and SIM registration records.

Please ensure that your phone line is registered under your correct national identification details before proceeding with the application.

Application Deadline : Extended To 15th May 2025

All applications must be submitted by April 30, 2025. Late applications will not be accepted, so it is advisable to apply well before the deadline to avoid any last-minute issues.

Important Application Tips

• Free Application: The application process is entirely free. Be cautious of fraudsters claiming to represent the project and demanding payment. The Government of Kenya does not charge for NYOTA Project applications.
• Accuracy of Information: Ensure all information provided is accurate and truthful. False information may lead to disqualification.
• Selection Process: A computerized randomization Selection process will be used to pick successful Youth from the pool of applicants who participated the process.

Support and Inquiries

For additional information, clarification, or technical support during the application process, you can contact the NYOTA Project support team through the following channels:

• Website: www.nyotaproject.go.ke
• Call: 0800 222 221 Toll free

Support is available in English and Kiswahili languages.

Why You Should Apply

The NYOTA Project offers more than just training; it serves as a launchpad for youth aiming to build sustainable livelihoods through entrepreneurship or employment. Whether you aspire to own a small retail shop, launch a tailoring business, open a barbershop, or create an innovative agribusiness, NYOTA can help you take that first bold step. The initiative emphasizes inclusive growth, ensuring that even those with limited formal education or from marginalized Communities can also benefit.