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 officially 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.
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 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.
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.
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Applications are open to tech-enabled startups that have been in operation for not more than 12 months with founder(s) who are resident in any of the country’s six geopolitical zones. Eligible startups must have a startup at the post-MVP stage, demonstrate evidence of market validation through users, customers, pilots, partnerships, waitlists or any other demand signals, and be willing to participate fully in the hybrid programme.
The programme will run as an intensive 12-week hybrid experience, including virtual engagements and two physical weeks in Lagos focused on collaboration, learning, and business growth.
Applications for Growth Lab open today, July 15, 2026, and close August 19, 2026. Female Founders are strongly encouraged to apply. Selection will be conducted through a clearly defined, merit-based evaluation process aligned with published criteria. Interested individuals can apply at www.idicestartupbridge.ng
About iDICE
The iDICE Startup Bridge is an initiative under the Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) Programme, a Federal Government of Nigeria intervention designed to promote innovation, entrepreneurship, and job creation within the digital and creative sectors. The iDICE Programme is implemented by the Bank of Industry and co-financed by the African Development Bank (AfDB), Agence Française de Développement (AFD), and the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB).
The iDICE Startup Bridge operates through two distinct entrepreneurship programmes: Founders Lab, an Incubator for founders at the ideation phase, and Growth Lab – an Accelerator for post-MVP ventures ready to scale and raise institutional capital.
For additional information and interview requests, contact info@startupbridge.ng
