Are you a Nigerian graduate with a business idea but need affordable funding to start or grow your business? this Central Bank of Nigeria Tertiary Institutions Entrepreneurship Scheme (CBN TIES) is a government initiative that empowers graduates through low-interest loans, business support and training, in this article we will show you How to apply, who is eligible, what requirements you need, and tips to increase your chances of success.
If you are also curious about other programs such as First Financial Creative Industry Funding or the National Youth Entrepreneurship Fund, stay tuned – we’ll talk about related opportunities as well.
What are CBN TIES?
CBN TIES stands for Central Bank of Nigeria Tertiary Institutions Entrepreneurship Initiative. It aims to provide business funding to Nigerian university and polytechnic graduates through:
The main objectives are to reduce unemployment, promote an entrepreneurial culture and help graduates convert ideas into profitable businesses – (Businessday NG)
Who is eligible to apply?
In order to be eligible to participate CBN TIES Term Loan Componentsyou must:
- become a Graduates of Nigerian universities or polytechnics
- Completed NYSC with certificate of discharge or exemption
- There is one Entrepreneurship training certificate from your school
- yes Not more than 7 years after NYSC (from discharge/exemption date)
Undergraduate students cannot apply for loans directlybut they may benefit from project competitions under the program developmental component.
Types and amounts of loans available
Term loans under CBN TIES consist of two main levels:
Level 1 – Individual Entrepreneur
- Up to ₦5 million
- Repayment period: maximum 5 years
- interest rate: 5% per year (set to adjust over time)
- Suspension: up to 12 months
Tier 2 – Partnership or corporate projects
- most 25 million₦
- Same terms and interest characteristics as Level 1
- Must be a registered company (CAC file required)
notes: Trading business has Not eligible – The focus must be on entrepreneurial and high-impact sectors such as technology, agribusiness, creative industries, renewable energy and manufacturing.
Documents required for application
Before applying, please make sure you are ready to upload the following:
- First degree certificate (BSc, HND or equivalent)
- NYSC discharge or exemption certificate
- Entrepreneurship training certificate
- The Global Standards Directive (GIS) you signed
- Projected income statement and cash flow statement (for new business)
- Detailed business plan showing project feasibility
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Apply for a CBN TIES Loan
Please follow the process below to successfully submit your application:
- Visit the TIES official portal:
https://cbnties.com.ng - Click “Apply Now” or “register”
- create an account Use a valid email and phone number
- Fill out the application form — Include all business and personal details
- Upload required files (certificates, plans, forecasts)
- Submit your application and print or save the confirmation page for your records
There is no fee to submit or process your application. CBN does not charge any agent or third party a fee for the application process.
Tips to improve your application success rate
- Write a clear business plan – Lenders seek realistic goals and financial projections.
- Complete mandatory entrepreneurship training Before applying.
- Upload high-quality scanned documents — A poor scan may delay processing.
- Be prepared for verification —Original documents may be requested for due diligence.
- Choose projects with strong job creation potential — CBN prioritizes high-impact ideas.
OTHER OPPORTUNITIES RELATED TO CBN TIES
While TIES is focused on graduates, other initiatives that may be of interest to you include:
- First Financial Creative Industry Financing – Perfect for creatives and tech entrepreneurs
- Nigerian Youth Investment Fund (NYIF) – Wider youth funding scheme
- Student Loan Program (NELFUND) – Separate loan scheme for students
Most of these can be applied for online and usually require a BVN, NIN and a business plan or project proposal. (General guidance; check respective portals for specific information.) (Reddit)
FAQ
Q: Can undergraduate students apply for TIES loans?
Answer: No – only graduates who have completed the NYSC course can apply for term loans. However, the development component involves student competition – (Central Bank of Nigeria)
Q: Are CBN TIES loans interest-free?
Answer: No – Term Loans have lower interest rates (initially 5% per annum, subject to change) – (Mediangr)
Q: Do I need collateral?
A: Yes – the certificate and signed GIS serve as collateral and are registered with the National Collateral Registry (NCR).
Q: Is there an age limit?
Answer: You must be 7 years after NYSC Qualified.
Conclusion: Start your entrepreneurial journey with CBN TIES
this CBN TIES Loan Scheme is one of the most empowering programs for graduate entrepreneurs in Nigeria – offering soft loans, investment opportunities and capacity building to help start or expand your business.
Whether you’re in tech, agriculture, the creative arts or renewable energy, this updated guide has everything you need Apply confidently and securely On the official portal – (Mediangr)
if you want one Free business plan template or loan application checklistjust ask!
