The Federal Government of Nigeria has introduced a new initiative called the iDICE Startup Bridge aimed at helping early‑stage entrepreneurs build and grow businesses, with grants of up to ₦10 million available for qualifying founders.
The programme was launched as part of the broader Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) initiative, which seeks to strengthen the country’s digital economy, drive innovation, and support enterprise development across all states and the Federal Capital Territory.
Under the new Startup Bridge, aspiring entrepreneurs at the idea stage can participate in a structured training and support pathway known as the Founders Lab. This 12‑week programme is designed to help innovators turn their business ideas into viable products and services through mentoring, business development guidance, and practical training.
Grants and Support for Early‑Stage Founders
During the Founders Lab programme, participants will work on validating their concepts, developing sustainable business models, and preparing minimum viable products (MVPs). At the end of the training, up to 100 of the best performing founders will receive grants of up to ₦10 million each to support product development, launch activities, or early operations.
In total, the initiative plans to support hundreds of entrepreneurs yearly, providing them with the tools and funding needed to succeed in competitive markets.
Later Support for Scaling Startups
Beyond the Founders Lab, the iDICE Startup Bridge also includes a second pathway called the Growth Lab, which is intended for startups that have progressed beyond the idea stage and already have a working prototype or early market traction.
Startups selected for the Growth Lab will be eligible to receive equity investments of up to $100,000 (or the equivalent in naira), along with additional technical support to help them scale operations, refine governance structures, and prepare for larger fundraising rounds.
Nationwide Access and Funding Partners
Officials say the programme is open to entrepreneurs from all parts of Nigeria — including regions outside the major tech hubs — with the goal of widening access to capital and entrepreneurial support.
The initiative is implemented by the Bank of Industry (BOI) and funded in part by major international development partners, including the African Development Bank, Agence Française de Développement, and the Islamic Development Bank.
Since its launch in 2023 with funding of $617.7 million, the iDICE programme has already begun supporting innovation in Nigeria’s digital and creative economy, and the Startup Bridge marks the latest effort to build a more robust pipeline of early‑stage enterprises.
Deadline and Next Steps
Applications for the Founders Lab opened on March 16, 2026 and will close on April 20, 2026. Interested entrepreneurs can apply through the official programme website.
Programme organisers said applications will be evaluated on a merit‑based process, with selected founders invited to participate in the training and potential grant award.
This initiative represents one of the Federal Government’s biggest efforts to support startup growth, job creation, and economic inclusion — particularly among young innovators looking to turn ideas into impactful Nigerian businesses.
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