FG opens applications for tech startup accelerator with $350,000 funding
The Federal Government has opened applications for the iDICE Startup Bridge Growth Lab, a 12-week accelerator programme that will provide up to $350,000 in funding to 12 promising Nigerian technology startups.
The initiative, implemented by the Bank of Industry under the Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) Programme, will select two startups from each of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones for business support, investment-readiness training and access to funding aimed at accelerating their growth.
According to the programme organisers, the Growth Lab is the next phase of the iDICE Startup Bridge founder support pathway, building on the Founders Lab, which helps early-stage entrepreneurs validate and refine their business ideas.
The programme is designed for startups that have developed a minimum viable product (MVP) and require structured support to scale, with a focus on strengthening business fundamentals and preparing participants to attract external investment.
National Coordinator of iDICE Startup Bridge, Ife Adebayo, said successful applicants would benefit from funding, mentorship, market expansion opportunities and access to industry experts.
“Selected founders will gain access to structured growth support, investment-readiness preparation, access to industry experts, market expansion pathways, a $100,000 cash investment (or naira equivalent) for 7.5 per cent equity upon entering the programme, subject to terms and conditions, and up to $250,000 in potential follow-on investment should certain growth conditions be met,” Adebayo said.
He said the programme is open to technology-enabled startups that have operated for no more than 12 months and have founders resident in any of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. Eligible applicants must have reached the post-MVP stage, demonstrate market validation and commit to participating fully in the hybrid programme.
The accelerator will combine virtual sessions with two weeks of physical engagements in Lagos. Applications opened on July 15 and will close on August 19, 2026, while the organisers encouraged female technology entrepreneurs to apply, saying participants will be selected through a transparent, merit-based process.
