The Federal Government has opened applications for the Growth Lab accelerator under its Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) Programme, offering eligible Nigerian startups access to up to $350,000 in funding alongside business development support aimed at helping young companies scale.
Implemented by the Bank of Industry (BoI), the 12-week programme will select 12 technology-enabled startups drawn from Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones for intensive acceleration, investment readiness training, mentorship and market expansion opportunities.
The initiative forms part of the government’s broader efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem, with Brandspur Brand News reporting that the Growth Lab is designed to support startups that have moved beyond the idea stage and are ready to expand their operations and attract external investment.
The programme builds on the earlier Founders Lab initiative, which focused on helping early-stage innovators validate business ideas. Growth Lab targets startups that have already developed a minimum viable product (MVP) and demonstrated early market traction through customers, partnerships, pilot projects, waitlists or other measurable indicators of demand.
According to the programme coordinators, participating founders will receive structured business growth support, access to experienced industry mentors, investment readiness coaching and pathways for expanding into new markets.
Successful startups will also be eligible for an initial investment of $100,000, or its naira equivalent, in exchange for equity participation, subject to programme terms and conditions. Businesses that meet defined growth milestones during the accelerator may subsequently qualify for additional follow-on funding of up to $250,000.
Applications are open to technology-enabled startups that have been operating for no more than 12 months and whose founders reside within any of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. Organisers said the selection process will be merit-based and aligned with clearly defined evaluation criteria.
The accelerator will run as a hybrid programme over 12 weeks, combining virtual sessions with two weeks of physical engagements in Lagos focused on collaboration, mentorship, networking and business development.
Applications for the Growth Lab opened on July 15, 2026, and will close on August 19, 2026. Programme organisers also encouraged female founders to apply as part of efforts to promote greater participation and diversity within Nigeria’s growing startup ecosystem.
