Deji Alli ARM Young Talent Award (DAAYTA) 2026: N12 Million for Socially Impactful Ideas

If you are truly serious about securing this grant, you are exactly where you need to be. Most people miss out not because they’re unqualified; they miss out because of small, avoidable mistakes. Tiny things. The kind you only notice after it’s too late. Stay with this till the end, and you’ll understand not just what to do, but how to do it right. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll be walking into this application with clarity, confidence, and a real edge and you will be selected and win your grant with ease.

Deji Alli ARM Young Talent Award (DAAYTA) 2026: N12 Million for Socially Impactful Ideas

If you have a startup that is doing more than just “making money”—one that is actually solving a Nigerian problem—the Deji Alli ARM Young Talent Award (DAAYTA) is the holy grail of early-stage funding.

Named in honor of ARM’s founding CEO, Deji Alli, this award isn’t just a “cheque in the mail.” It is a comprehensive N12,000,000 commitment to your growth. As an experienced grant writer, I’ve seen many founders confuse DAAYTA with a standard pitch competition. It’s not. DAAYTA is looking for “Changemakers”—founders who are building full-time, registered businesses that align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The 2026 application window is open, and with a deadline of January 12, 2026, there is zero time for “later.”

The “N12 Million” Breakdown: What You Actually Get

Winning DAAYTA is a one-year transformative journey. The N12 million is strategically allocated to ensure your business doesn’t just survive, but thrives:

• Working Capital: Direct funding to scale your operations and refine your product.

• Entrepreneurial Education: A seat at the Pan-Atlantic University’s Enterprise Development Centre (EDC) for a Certificate in Entrepreneurial Management (starting June/July 2026).

• Acceleration: A 5-month intensive support program hosted by TVC Labs, one of Lagos’s top innovation hubs.

• Ambassadorship: You become a face of ARM, gaining access to a network of high-net-worth investors and industry titans.

The “Must-Haves”: Is Your Business Eligible?

The screening for 2026 is strict. If you don’t meet these “Hard Requirements,” the system will filter you out automatically:

1. Nationality & Age: Must be a Nigerian citizen between 18 and 35 years old.

2. Legal Status: Your business must be a Limited Liability Company incorporated with the CAC. (No “Business Names” or unregistered ideas).

3. The MVP Factor: You must have a Minimum Viable Product. This means you are already in the market and have paying customers.

4. Full-Time Commitment: You must be running the company on a full-time basis. No “side-hustles” allowed.

5. Sector Focus: They prioritize Agriculture, Education, Healthcare, Housing, IT, Clean Tech, and Transportation.

The DAAYTA 2026 Application Checklist

The difference between a finalist and a rejected applicant is often found in the “Small Things” on this list.

The “Legal” Folder:

• CAC Documents: Evidence of incorporation as a Limited Liability Company.

• Proof of Identity: National ID, Passport, or Voter’s Card (Name must match CAC docs).

• Tax ID (TIN): Ensure your company is tax-compliant.

The “Product” Folder:

• Customer Traction: Data showing your current sales or user base.

• Impact Narrative: A clear explanation of how your business solves a specific Social or Economic problem (aligned with SDGs).

• The “POEM” Plan: Prepare your Plan, Operations, Execution, and Monitoring strategy—a key requirement for shortlisted candidates.

The “Commitment” Folder:

• Virtual Pitch Readiness: Ensure you are available for the 2-day Pitch Workshop (April 15–16, 2026) and the Final Pitch (April 17, 2026).

• Lagos Availability: Commitment to be physically or virtually present for the 5-month acceleration and EDC program.

How to Beat the 2026 Competition

To win the N12 million, you need to stand out from over 500 applicants. Here is the insider strategy:

• Show me the “Soul”: Previous winners like Jennifer Esiaba (Mariam Grey Pharmacy) and Rita Idehai (Ecobarter) didn’t just have tech; they had impact. Tell the story of the one person whose life was changed by your product.

• Know the “ARM” Way: ARM is an investment firm built on integrity and excellence. Your application must reflect professional standards—clean financials, clear grammar, and a realistic growth plan.

• The “Ambassador” Mindset: In your application, show that you are ready to represent the ARM brand. They aren’t just looking for a CEO; they are looking for a leader.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

1. Vague SDG Alignment: Don’t just say “we help the poor.” Mention the specific SDG (e.g., “SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being”) and provide data on how you contribute.

2. No Paying Customers: If you are still in the “testing” phase with no revenue, you are too early for DAAYTA. Focus on getting your first 10 customers before the January 12th deadline.

3. Waiting for the Last Day: The portal (hosted via VC4A/TVC Labs) is used by thousands. Submit by January 10th to avoid technical glitches.

Conclusion

The Deji Alli ARM Young Talent Award is the bridge between being a “struggling startup” and an “industry leader.” N12 million is a powerful fuel, but the mentorship from TVC Labs and the education from EDC are the tools that will build your legacy.