The effects of nitrogen, phosphorus and vitamin on growth and lipid content of a freshwater microalgae Scenedesmus sp. were investigated under indoor conditions. Nitrogen, phosphorus and vitamin presented significant statistical effect on lipid content, and a maximum lipid content of 29.3% was obtained, corresponded to increases of 90% when compared to those obtained with the original nutrients medium. On the other hand, only nitrogen and phosphorus presented significant statistical effect on cell growth, achieving ash free dry biomass, algal density, and specific growth rate of 1.3 g•L −1 , 1.5E+07 cells mL −1 , and 0.62 d −1 , respectively. By the use of the desirability function, it was possible to maximize the cell growth and lipid content simultaneously. The fatty acid composition of the microalgal lipid comprises over 80% of saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids. Thus, Scenedesmus sp. biomass could be used as suitable feedstock for biodiesel production.