The Nigerian government has opened applications for a new accelerator programme that will give selected technology startups the opportunity to access up to $350,000 in investment.
The iDICE Startup Bridge Growth Lab is a 12-week acceleration programme under the Federal Government’s Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) programme. Implemented by the Bank of Industry, the initiative will select 12 technology-enabled startups from Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
The programme targets startups that have developed a minimum viable product, achieved early market traction and need structured support to scale their businesses.
Participants will benefit from business-growth support, investment-readiness training, access to industry experts, market expansion assistance and connections to strategic business networks.
Selected startups will be eligible for an initial investment of $100,000, or its naira equivalent, in exchange for a 7.5 per cent equity stake. Startups that meet specified growth conditions may qualify for up to $250,000 in follow-on investment, bringing the total potential funding available to each selected company to $350,000.
The Growth Lab builds on the programme’s Founders Lab, which supports entrepreneurs at the idea-development and validation stages. Unlike the Founders Lab, the Growth Lab is focused on businesses that have progressed beyond the idea stage and are preparing to secure external investment.
Applications are open to technology-enabled startups that have been operating for no more than 12 months. Founders must reside in one of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones and be available to participate fully in the programme.
The application window opened on July 15, 2026, and will close on August 19, 2026. Female founders have been particularly encouraged to apply, while organisers said participants will be selected through a merit-based assessment process.
The initiative is expected to help promising Nigerian startups address early-stage financing challenges, strengthen their ability to attract institutional investors and expand their operations.
About The Author
