PPDC Launches $7,500 Budeshi Grant Portal

The Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC) has launched its Budeshi Grant Portal, opening applications for a $7,500 mini-grant to empower civic actors and grassroots organisations across Nigeria.

The initiative, unveiled yesterday in Abuja, marks a significant step in promoting transparency, accountability, and community-driven service delivery in public procurement processes.

PPDC’s chief executive officer, Lucy Abagi, described the launch as the beginning of a new journey for civic engagement in Nigeria.

“This isn’t just about social media advocacy anymore. It’s about taking real action and empowering voices at the grassroots,” she said.

Abagi expressed confidence that the current administration would be proud of the initiative, highlighting its alignment with the government’s Ease and HOPE agenda.

She said the Budeshi Grant Portal, developed in partnership with Devon Technologies, is designed to be fully digital, transparent, and citizen-centred. The platform allows applicants to track the entire process, from registration to final selection.

“The portal is now live, enabling civil society organisations, procurement monitors, and community advocates to apply for funding to track public projects within their states.”

In her welcome address, PPDC’s communications manager, Nnenna Eze, said this system ensures inclusivity and accountability at every stage.

“This grant is not just about money; it’s about shifting power to those who need it most, the people at the grassroots,” said Eze.

Also, Precious Adigwe, PPDC’s programmes officer, noted that while the mini-grant is modest in financial terms, its real value lies in the skills and tools beneficiaries will gain.

“Our goal is to train 37 organisations, one from each state and the FCT, in data collection, advocacy strategies, and the use of civic tech platforms like Budeshi and FOI tools,” she explained.

According to her, the training phase is scheduled to run from August 2025 to March 2026, with ongoing support provided through virtual mentoring and legal advisory services.

Speaking on criteria, she explained that “To qualify, applicants must be registered entities or willing to register through PPDC’s pro bono legal network.

“They must also have a physical presence, be actively involved in civic accountability, and demonstrate previous community engagement work.

“Applicants will undergo a multi-stage selection process involving essays, documentation, and video pitches to prove their readiness to represent their communities and the PPDC brand.