The SFDP Health Innovation Challenge 2026 is now open for applications, offering $300 mini-grants to each of the top three teams with innovative, low-cost public health solutions designed to address real-world health challenges in Nigeria.
Organised by the Society for Disease Prevention (SFDP), this opportunity targets students and young professionals who are passionate about public health innovation, disease prevention, and community-based health solutions. The program is ideal for early-career changemakers looking to gain funding, implementation experience, and national recognition in the public health and healthcare innovation space.
About the SFDP Health Innovation Challenge
The Society for Disease Prevention (SFDP) is a registered non-profit organisation focused on preventing public health crises through technology, education, and grassroots innovation. This challenge is designed to support practical, small-scale public health projects that can be realistically implemented within Nigerian communities.
Rather than theory-heavy proposals, SFDP is specifically interested in actionable ideas that solve pressing health problems using affordable, scalable approaches.
Grant Benefits
Selected teams will receive the following benefits:
- $300 funding for each of the top three teams
- Opportunity to implement a real public health project
- National visibility for your health innovation
- Practical experience in grant-funded project execution
- Strengthened CV for careers in public health, global health, healthcare innovation, and NGOs
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the SFDP Health Innovation Challenge 2026, applicants must meet all the conditions below:
- Teams must consist of 3 to 5 members
- Applicants must be students or young professionals based in Nigeria
- All team members must be below 30 years of age
- At least one team member must be studying or working in a health-related field
- Project ideas must be suitable for small-scale, low-cost implementation
- Proposed solutions must address real public health challenges in Nigeria
Who Should Apply?
This opportunity is especially suitable for:
- Public health students
- Medical, nursing, pharmacy, and allied health students
- Health-tech innovators
- NGO volunteers and community health advocates
- Young professionals working in healthcare, data, or social impact
- Interdisciplinary teams combining health and technology skills
Important Dates
- Application Opens: December 28, 2025
- Application Deadline: January 18, 2026
Late submissions will not be considered, so early application is strongly advised.
How to Apply
Interested teams must submit their application through the official SFDP application portal.
To get started, Apply here through the official SFDP Health Innovation Challenge application page.
Selection Focus
Applications will be evaluated based on:
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- Relevance of the health problem addressed
- Practicality and affordability of the solution
- Potential impact on Nigerian communities
- Team composition and health-related expertise
- Feasibility of implementation within a short timeframe
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is this a scholarship or a grant?
This is a mini-grant, not a traditional scholarship. The funding supports project implementation rather than tuition fees.
Can undergraduate students apply?
Yes. Undergraduate students are eligible as long as they meet the age and team requirements.
Do all team members need a health background?
No. Only at least one team member must be in a health-focused degree or career. Multidisciplinary teams are encouraged.
Can NYSC members apply?
Yes, NYSC members below 30 years old and based in Nigeria are eligible.
Is the $300 given per team or per person?
The $300 grant is awarded per team, not per individual.
Can secondary school students apply?
No. The challenge is strictly for students and young professionals.
Is this opportunity open to international applicants?
No. Applicants must be based in Nigeria.
Final Note
If you’re looking for a funded public health opportunity in Nigeria that boosts your career profile, builds implementation experience, and strengthens your chances for future global health grants and fellowships, the SFDP Health Innovation Challenge 2026 is a strong opportunity to consider.
