Reported by: Puis Althea | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Federal Government, through its Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) Programme implemented by the Bank of Industry (BoI), has officially opened applications for the iDICE Startup Bridge Growth Lab, a 12-week accelerator designed to provide up to $350,000 in funding and intensive business development support for 12 high-potential Nigerian tech startups. The initiative, which opened applications on July 15, 2026, and will close on August 19, 2026, targets startups from each of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, ensuring a geographically balanced selection process that reflects the country's diverse innovation ecosystem.
The Growth Lab is the next phase of the iDICE Startup Bridge founder support pathway, building on the Founders Lab programme, which focuses on helping idea-stage entrepreneurs validate and refine their business concepts. According to a statement issued by the programme organisers, the accelerator is specifically designed for startups that have developed a minimum viable product (MVP) and require structured support 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 organisers explained.
Speaking on the programme, the National Coordinator of iDICE Startup Bridge, Ife Adebayo, detailed the comprehensive package available to selected founders. "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. The total potential funding of $350,000 per startup represents a significant commitment to nurturing Nigeria's tech ecosystem and positioning local innovators for global competitiveness.
The programme is open to technology-enabled startups that have been operating for no more than 12 months, with founders resident in any of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. Eligible startups must be at the post-MVP stage and demonstrate evidence of market validation through users, customers, pilots, partnerships, waitlists or other demand signals. "Eligible startups must be at the post-MVP stage, demonstrate evidence of market validation through users, customers, pilots, partnerships, waitlists or other demand signals, and be willing to participate fully in the hybrid programme," Adebayo added. The 12-week programme will combine virtual sessions with two weeks of physical engagements in Lagos, where participants will receive mentorship, collaborate with industry experts and refine strategies for business expansion.
The organisers have strongly encouraged female tech professionals to apply, noting that successful participants will be selected through a transparent, merit-based evaluation process. "Female tech professionals are strongly encouraged to apply," the organisers stated, highlighting the programme's commitment to gender inclusivity in Nigeria's technology sector. Applications can be submitted at www.idicestartupbridge.ng, with the deadline set for August 19, 2026. The Growth Lab represents a significant opportunity for early-stage Nigerian startups to access not only funding but also the mentorship, networks and strategic guidance needed to scale their ventures in an increasingly competitive global market.
The iDICE programme, which is backed by the African Development Bank and implemented by the Bank of Industry, aims to equip 175,000 youths aged 15 to 35 with skills and support for tech and creative startups. The Growth Lab is the latest component of this broader initiative, designed to bridge the gap between early-stage innovation and investment-ready businesses. For Nigerian founders, the programme offers a structured pathway to growth, combining financial investment with the kind of hands-on support that can transform promising ideas into scalable enterprises. With applications now open, the clock is ticking for Nigeria's most ambitious tech entrepreneurs to seize this opportunity and take their ventures to the next level.
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