The Nyota Fund has quickly become one of Kenya’s most talked-about youth empowerment projects. Backed by the government and the World Bank, this initiative provides up to KES 50,000 in non-repayable business grants, along with entrepreneurship training and job placements.
It targets young Kenyans aged 18–29, and up to 35 for persons with disabilities. Beyond funding, beneficiaries gain practical skills, mentorship, and automatic enrollment in the NSSF Haba Haba savings plan. Here’s everything you need to know about how to apply for the Nyota Fund and start your journey toward self-reliance.
How to Apply for the Nyota Fund
The application process for the Nyota Fund is fully digital, free, and open to eligible Kenyan youth across all 47 counties. You can apply using your phone in just a few steps.
Application Steps
| Step | Action | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dial *254# | Use your mobile phone to access the Nyota application menu |
| 2 | Select “NYOTA Project” | Choose your preferred intervention: Business Support, On-The-Job Experience (OJE), or Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) |
| 3 | Enter Personal Details | Provide your ID number, age, and education level (ensure your SIM and ID match) |
| 4 | Confirm and Submit | Review the details and submit your application |
| 5 | Receive SMS Confirmation | You will get an SMS confirming receipt of your application |
Applications are reviewed and verified digitally. If shortlisted, you will receive another SMS with instructions on orientation and training.
Understanding the Nyota Project
The Nyota Project, which stands for National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement, is a five-year government-led initiative implemented by the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection. Funded by the World Bank, it aims to create sustainable youth employment opportunities through grants, mentorship, and skills training.
Launched in 2024, Nyota focuses on empowering youth who face challenges accessing jobs or starting businesses due to lack of capital or formal education. It operates through four main interventions designed to match diverse skill sets and economic needs.
Key Nyota Fund Interventions
1. Business Support Grant
This intervention targets 100,000 young people with viable business ideas but limited capital. Beneficiaries receive a total of KES 50,000, disbursed in two phases:
- KES 25,000 after completing entrepreneurship and financial literacy training.
- KES 25,000 after demonstrating progress and achieving business milestones.
Training is conducted by certified trainers from the Micro and Small Enterprises Authority (MSEA). Before disbursement, every participant must attend a four-day entrepreneurship course.
2. On-The-Job Experience (OJE)
Over 90,000 youth will benefit from the OJE component, which provides practical work experience, mentorship, and skills development. Participants are matched with host organizations, companies, or workshops aligned with their career interests.
During placement, youth gain real-world exposure and receive a certificate of experience upon completion. This certificate enhances employability and opens doors to future job opportunities.
3. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
This program benefits about 20,000 youth with informal or self-taught skills. RPL helps artisans such as welders, electricians, hairdressers, and mechanics gain national certification. The credential validates their skills and allows them to qualify for better-paying jobs or register formal businesses.
Nyota Fund Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Nyota Fund, you must meet the following criteria:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a Kenyan citizen |
| ID & SIM Match | SIM card must be registered under the same ID number used in the application |
| Age | 18–29 years (up to 35 for youth with disabilities) |
| Education | KCSE certificate or below (graduates not eligible) |
| Employment Status | Unemployed or working in a low-income job |
The program intentionally excludes college and university graduates, who are encouraged to apply for other empowerment schemes like Ajira Digital, KYEOP, or YEDF.
What Happens After You Apply
Once your application is submitted, officials verify your ID, age, and education level. A digital system then conducts a fair random selection to identify shortlisted applicants across all counties.
Shortlisted candidates receive an SMS with further instructions on attending orientation and training sessions. Every selected youth must complete mandatory training on entrepreneurship, financial management, and life skills before receiving funding or placement.
- Business Support beneficiaries receive KES 25,000 first, followed by another 25,000 after showing progress.
- OJE participants get company placements and a monthly stipend during the program.
- RPL candidates are assessed and certified by recognized institutions.
All beneficiaries are automatically enrolled in the NSSF Haba Haba savings plan, where both the government and participants contribute monthly. The Nyota Fund contributes KES 1,000 per month for six months to promote financial discipline and savings culture.
Common Questions about the Nyota Fund
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is the KES 50,000 grant repayable? | No. It is a non-refundable government grant. |
| Can university or college graduates apply? | No. Nyota targets youth with KCSE or below. |
| Is there an application fee? | No. Applying is completely free through *254#. |
| Is there an online form? | No. The official and only way to apply is via USSD. |
Final Word
The Nyota Fund is more than a grant—it is a life-changing opportunity for thousands of young Kenyans seeking financial independence.
By combining business funding, skills training, job exposure, and savings, the program gives youth the tools to create sustainable livelihoods. If you meet the eligibility requirements, dial *254# today and take the first step toward shaping your future through the Nyota Fund.
