The Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) Startup Bridge has officially opened applications for the second cohort of its Founders Lab programme, offering aspiring Nigerian entrepreneurs an opportunity to access mentorship, training, funding, and investor networks designed to accelerate startup growth.
The Founders Lab is a flagship component of the iDICE Startup Bridge initiative, a national entrepreneurship programme established to support early-stage founders in transforming innovative ideas into sustainable and scalable businesses. The initiative is implemented through the Bank of Industry (BOI) under the broader iDICE programme, which aims to strengthen Nigeria’s digital and creative economy through strategic investments in innovation, skills development, and enterprise growth.
Designed as a 12-week capacity-building programme, Founders Lab targets entrepreneurs at the idea, prototype, or early minimum viable product (MVP) stage. Participants will receive practical business training, structured learning modules, expert mentorship, peer collaboration opportunities, and access to regional innovation networks.
One of the major attractions of the programme is its funding pathway. Outstanding participants will have the opportunity to access performance-based grants to support product development and early business execution. In addition, successful founders may progress to the programme’s Growth Lab, where startups with demonstrated traction can access equity investment opportunities and further support to scale their ventures.
The launch of Cohort 2 follows the success of the inaugural cohort, which attracted thousands of applications from across Nigeria. The strong response highlighted the growing demand among young entrepreneurs for structured support, access to capital, and opportunities to connect with experienced industry leaders. The first cohort brought together founders from diverse sectors, including fintech, agritech, healthtech, education technology, e-commerce, and creative industries.
Organisers say the programme is designed to bridge critical gaps within Nigeria’s startup ecosystem by providing entrepreneurs with the knowledge, resources, and networks required to build competitive businesses. The initiative also seeks to expand opportunities beyond established technology hubs, ensuring that innovators from all regions of the country can participate.
Eligible applicants include Nigerian entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas or early-stage ventures seeking guidance to validate their concepts and prepare for growth. Selection will be based on the potential impact of the business idea, market relevance, innovation, and the founder’s commitment to execution.
Industry stakeholders have welcomed the opening of applications, describing the programme as a significant step toward nurturing the next generation of Nigerian innovators and job creators.
Interested founders are encouraged to submit their applications before the deadline through the official iDICE Startup Bridge application portal. With increasing attention on entrepreneurship as a driver of economic diversification, Founders Lab Cohort 2 presents a valuable opportunity for emerging entrepreneurs to turn promising ideas into successful businesses.
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