Nigerian startups get opportunity to receive upto $350,000 under iDICE Growth Lab funding

The iDICE Startup Bridge program, an initiative under the Federal Government of Nigeria’s Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) Programme implemented by the Bank of Industry has opened applications for Growth Lab, a 12-week acceleration programme that will select 12 tech-enabled Nigerian startups, from the 6 geopolitical zones, for intensive growth support, investment readiness training, and access to up to $350,000 in funding.

In a statement, the organisers said that the programme represents the next stage in the iDICE Startup Bridge’s founder support pathway. Following the implementation of Founders Lab, which equips idea-stage innovators with the tools and guidance needed to validate and develop their ideas, Growth Lab will support startups that have achieved early traction and are seeking the expertise, networks, and investment required to scale.

“Growth Lab is the Startup Bridge accelerator programme, designed for startups that have developed an MVP and require structured support to scale. The programme focuses on strengthening venture fundamentals and preparing companies for external investment,” the statement stated.

The programme targets startup founders who are seeking the support, networks, expertise, and investment readiness required to accelerate growth and strengthen their position within the Nigerian innovation ecosystem.

According to the National Coordinator of the Programme, Ife Adebayo “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% equity upon entering the programme (terms and conditions apply), and up to $250,000 in potential follow-on investment should certain growth conditions be met.”

Applications are open to tech-enabled startups that have been in operation for not more than 12 months with founder(s) who are residents in any of the country’s six geopolitical zones.

He said in the statement that “Applicants can register at www.idicestartupbridge.ng as applications for Growth Lab opened on July 15, 2026, and will close on August 19, 2026.”

Accordingly, female founders are strongly encouraged to apply. Selection will be conducted through a clearly defined, merit-based evaluation process aligned with published criteria.