Deji Alli Young Talent
Award (DAAYTA) 2026
The Deji Alli ARM Young Talent Award (DAAYTA), in partnership with TechnoVision (TVC), is excited to announce the commencement of the Call for Applications for the 2026 cohort. The program remains committed to empowering young entrepreneurs with innovative ideas that drive positive change. On behalf of its founding CEO, Deji Alli, in whose honour this award was created, ARM reaffirms its dedication to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and to nurturing young entrepreneurial talent.
DAAYTA is a youth-focused awards program designed to recognize and develop the potential of young entrepreneurs who demonstrate intelligence, creativity, and a strong commitment to making a meaningful impact in their communities. The program aligns with ARM’s vision of building a better future by investing in the next generation of changemakers.
The winner of DAAYTA 2026 will receive funding of ₦12,000,000 (twelve million naira) over one year. This funding is intended for developing a robust business plan, completing entrepreneurial education at the Pan Atlantic University’s Enterprise Development Centre in Lagos, Nigeria, and financing a 5-month acceleration program to develop their venture at a reputable entrepreneurial hub in Lagos.
Young entrepreneurs with innovative ideas and a commitment to positive community impact are invited to submit their applications.
Eligibility criteria
- be a citizen of Nigeria
- be between 18 and 35 years of age
- submit their application which must be their original work
- have an MVP (minimum viable product) i.e. you have customers
- must be a limited liability company duly incorporated in Nigeria
- must be operating the company on a full-time basis
- must commit to be physically available to fully participate in the DAAYTA programs and activities – Entrepreneurial education programme at the Pan Atlantic University’s Enterprise Development Centre in Lagos, Nigeria
- must commit to be available (physically or virtually) to participate in the 5-month acceleration support for the development of their venture
- be able to fund his/her/team’s travel expenses and other associated costs if required
- be physically available (with co-founders/team where they exist) for the 2-day Pitch Workshop and Final Pitch Event
- understand the business of ARM, what we stand for, and be ready to represent ARM as an Ambassador
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next stages of the program.
Past Awardees
About ARM
Founded in 1994 with its roots as an asset management firm, Asset & Resource Management Holding Company Limited (ARM) has transformed into one of Nigeria’s foremost non-bank financial institutions, specializing in Traditional Asset Management and Specialized Funds.
Renowned as a premier investment management firm, ARM offers a comprehensive suite of asset management services to a wide-ranging and varied clientele. This includes corporations, foundations, charities, high net-worth individuals, and small savers.
About TechnoVision
TechnoVision is the brand name for TechnoVision Communications Limited, a technology services company that advises clients on technology-led transformation and early-stage entrepreneurship in Africa. See tvcng.com for more details.