The Industrial Training Fund (ITF) has unveiled the SUPA Business Incubation Programme, a new initiative aimed at transforming skilled Nigerian artisans into successful entrepreneurs and employers of labour.
The programme was launched under the leadership of the ITF Director-General and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Afiz Oluwatoyin Ogun, as part of efforts to strengthen entrepreneurship development, enterprise support, and sustainable business growth across Nigeria.
According to the ITF, the initiative is designed to equip artisans with the knowledge, tools, and support systems needed to establish and grow viable businesses capable of creating jobs and contributing to the nation’s economic development.
What is the SUPA Business Incubation Programme?
The programme is an extension of the Skill-Up Artisans (SUPA) initiative and focuses on helping beneficiaries move beyond technical skills into full business ownership.
Participants will receive:
Entrepreneurship training using the internationally recognised SIYB (Start and Improve Your Business) methodology.
Structured business incubation support to help artisans develop sustainable enterprises.
Enterprise development services tailored to small and growing businesses.
Mentorship and coaching from experienced business professionals to guide participants in managing and scaling their ventures effectively.
ITF said the programme aligns with the Federal Government’s broader agenda of promoting skills development, reducing unemployment, and supporting small business growth.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the SUPA Business Incubation Programme, applicants are generally expected to:
Be a beneficiary or graduate of the ITF Skill-Up Artisans (SUPA) programme.
Possess a verifiable vocational or technical skill.
Show interest in starting or expanding a business in their trade area.
Be willing to participate fully in training, mentorship, and incubation activities.
Have valid means of identification and relevant business or training documents where applicable.
Note: ITF may release additional eligibility requirements on the official portal during the application process.
How to Apply
Interested candidates can apply online through the official ITF portal.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Navigate to the SUPA Business Incubation Programme section.
Create an account or log in with your existing details.
Complete the online application form with accurate personal and professional information.
Upload the required documents.
Submit your application and print the confirmation slip for reference.
Official Application Link
Application Deadline
As of the time of filing this report, the Industrial Training Fund has not officially announced the closing date for applications. Prospective applicants are advised to apply early and regularly check the ITF portal for updates on deadlines and programme schedules.
Why the Programme Matters
Nigeria’s artisan sector plays a critical role in employment and economic activity, but many skilled workers struggle to access business training, funding, and mentorship. The SUPA Business Incubation Programme seeks to bridge that gap by helping artisans build structured, profitable, and sustainable enterprises.
Economic analysts say the initiative could boost small business growth, improve job creation, and strengthen Nigeria’s informal sector by turning skilled workers into business leaders.