A structured support programme has been introduced to help Nigerian startups move from ideas to validated business models through targeted training, funding and mentorship initiatives.
Nigeria’s startup ecosystem continues to grow, with innovation-driven companies contributing to the country’s digital economy and attracting investment across sectors.
To support this growth, the iDICE Startup Bridge programme has been developed to provide tailored assistance for startups at different stages of development.
The programme is implemented by the Bank of Industry and funded by institutions including the African Development Bank, Agence Française de Développement and the Islamic Development Bank.
The iDICE Startup Bridge offers two main pathways designed for different startup stages.
- Founders Lab:
A 12-week programme for idea-stage and early prototype founders. It provides mentoring, structured learning, and support for validation, business model design and minimum viable product development.
- Each year, about 250 participants are expected to undergo training, with 100 top performers eligible for grants of up to N10 million.
- Growth Lab:
Designed for startups that already have products and early traction. It focuses on scaling operations, governance and fundraising strategies.
Selected startups in this category may receive $100,000 or its naira equivalent in equity investment, alongside support to expand operations and access institutional investors.
The programme is expected to support over 500 startups across Nigeria, covering all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
Vice President Kashim Shettima said the initiative aims to “unlock sustainable jobs and economic inclusion for Nigeria’s youthful population.”
Managing Director of the Bank of Industry, Dr Olasupo Olusi, stated that the programme creates “clear pathways for ideas to become enterprises, and enterprises to become engines of growth.”
The initiative provides structured access to early-stage funding, mentorship and investor networks for Nigerian entrepreneurs, as outlined by programme organisers.
