Nigeria’s entrepreneurial ecosystem continues to surge, with thousands of young innovators brimming with ideas that could transform industries and communities. Recognizing this potential, the Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) Startup Bridge programme has launched a fresh opportunity: Founders Lab Cohort 2 2026.
This initiative, backed by the Federal Government through the Bank of Industry (BOI) and supported by partners like the African Development Bank, offers structured support for early-stage founders to turn raw ideas into viable, tech-enabled businesses.
What is iDICE Startup Bridge Founders Lab?
The Founders Lab is a 12-week capacity-building programme designed specifically for aspiring entrepreneurs at the idea, prototype, or early Minimum Viable Product (MVP) stage. It focuses on practical, hands-on learning to help participants validate their ideas, build strong business foundations, and prepare for growth.
Unlike traditional accelerators that might demand traction or revenue, this programme meets founders where they are—providing the structure, mentorship, and resources needed for those first critical steps.
Key Programme Highlights:
- Duration: 12 weeks (mostly virtual with some in-person elements at partner hubs).
- Focus Areas: Problem-solution validation, customer discovery, MVP development/refinement, business model creation, operations basics, financial projections, and execution planning.
- Delivery: Structured online sessions, practical assignments, peer learning, expert mentorship, and access to a supportive founder community.
- Outcome: Participants emerge with a validated concept, MVP roadmap, business plan, and pathways to further support (including the Growth Lab for scaling startups).
Funding Opportunities
Funding in the Founders Lab is performance-based and non-equity, rewarding commitment and progress rather than being automatic. Successful completers who meet milestones may qualify for grants of up to ₦10 million to support MVP development, early execution, and launch. Additional opportunities exist through Demo Days for standout participants.
This approach ensures resources go to founders who demonstrate execution discipline and real potential.
Who Should Apply?
This call targets early-stage Nigerian entrepreneurs who:
- Are aged 18–35 years.
- Have an innovative digital, tech-enabled, or creative enterprise idea (or early prototype/MVP).
- Plan to operate their business in Nigeria (open to founders from all 36 states + FCT).
- Can fully commit to the 12-week programme, including sessions, assignments, evaluations, and Demo Day activities.
Whether you’re a solo founder with a bold concept in fintech, agritech, healthtech, edtech, creative industries, or another high-impact sector, this is tailored for you. Serial founders are also welcome if they meet the early-stage criteria.
Why Participate? Benefits for Nigerian Founders
- Gain practical startup skills and frameworks often missing in traditional education.
- Receive mentorship from experienced founders and ecosystem experts.
- Build a network of peers and access regional innovation hubs.
- Earn eligibility for non-dilutive funding tied to your progress.
- Position yourself for further iDICE support and broader investment readiness.
- Contribute to Nigeria’s digital and creative economy while solving local problems.
Cohort 1 saw strong interest (over 7,000 applications), with 185 founders onboarded, highlighting the programme’s relevance and competitiveness.
How to Apply for Cohort 2
Applications are open now for Cohort 2. Visit the official portal 👉 Here
Deadline: Check the official site for Cohort 2 specifics (recent announcements point to opportunities around mid-to-late July 2026; apply promptly as selections are merit-based).
Tip: Prepare a clear description of your idea, target market, and why it matters. Be ready to show your passion and commitment.
Don’t Miss This Bridge to Impact
The iDICE Startup Bridge Founders Lab is more than training, it’s a launchpad for Nigeria’s next generation of innovators. If you have a tech-driven idea and the drive to build, this is your moment to gain the tools, network, and potential funding to make it real.
Apply today and take that first structured step toward building a sustainable, impactful venture. Nigeria needs more founders like you turning challenges into opportunities.
