The Federal Government, through the Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) Programme implemented by the Bank of Industry, has opened applications for the iDICE Startup Bridge Growth Lab, a 12-week accelerator designed to provide up to $350,000 in funding to 12 promising Nigerian tech startups.
Speaking on the initiative, the National Coordinator of iDICE Startup Bridge, Ife Adebayo, said selected founders will benefit from funding, mentorship, and access to strategic business networks.
He explained that participants will receive structured growth support, investment-readiness training, access to industry experts, and pathways for market expansion. According to him, selected startups will also receive a $100,000 cash investment (or naira equivalent) in exchange for 7.5 per cent equity upon entry into the programme, subject to terms and conditions, with the possibility of up to $250,000 in additional follow-on funding if specific growth milestones are achieved.
Adebayo noted that the programme is open to technology-driven startups that have been in operation for no more than 12 months, with founders based in any of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
He added that eligible startups must be at the post-MVP stage and demonstrate market validation through users, customers, pilot programmes, partnerships, waitlists, or other indicators of demand. Applicants must also be willing to fully participate in the hybrid programme.
The 12-week accelerator will feature a combination of virtual sessions and two weeks of in-person activities in Lagos, where participants will engage with mentors, collaborate with industry experts, and refine their business growth strategies.
Adebayo disclosed that applications opened on July 15, 2026, and will close on August 19, 2026. Interested applicants can register at www.idicestartupbridge.ng.
Organisers also encouraged female tech professionals to apply, stating that the selection process will be transparent and based strictly on merit.
This information was contained in a statement released by the programme organisers on Sunday. The statement added that the initiative will select startups from each of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones to receive intensive business support, investment-readiness training, and funding aimed at accelerating their growth.
The organisers further explained that the Growth Lab represents the next stage of the iDICE Startup Bridge support pathway, building on the earlier Founders Lab, which focuses on helping early-stage entrepreneurs validate and refine their ideas.
They noted that the Growth Lab is specifically designed for startups with a developed MVP that require structured support to scale, with a focus on strengthening business fundamentals and preparing them for external investment.
About The Author
