The Federal Government of Nigeria has launched the iDICE Startup Bridge, a nationwide initiative aimed at supporting aspiring entrepreneurs and early-stage tech founders across the country. The programme is set to back more than 500 start-ups through structured training, grants, and equity investment, according to a statement on Tuesday.

Operating under the Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises Programme, the initiative is implemented by the Bank of Industry and funded by the African Development Bank, Agence Française de Développement, and the Islamic Development Bank. The programme aims to strengthen Nigeria’s start-up ecosystem, create jobs, and expand access to capital for digital and creative enterprises.

The iDICE Startup Bridge offers two distinct pathways: Founders Lab, now open for applications, supports idea-stage and early prototype founders with a 12-week training programme, mentorship, and grants of up to N10 million for high-performing participants. Growth Lab, set to launch in a later phase, will provide post-minimum viable product start-ups demonstrating traction with a $100,000 equity investment and support to scale operations and secure further funding.

Vice-President Kashim Shettima, Chairman of the iDICE Steering Committee, said the programme was created to “unlock sustainable jobs and economic inclusion for Nigeria’s youthful population”, adding that it provides young entrepreneurs with the opportunity to build and scale their ventures.

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Bank of Industry, Dr Olasupo Olusi, noted that the bank has a track record of supporting enterprise development, highlighting that N43bn was disbursed to creative and digital projects in 2025. He encouraged interested entrepreneurs to apply for Founders Lab before the 20 April 2026 deadline.

Head of Founders Lab, Cindy Ezerioha, described the programme as “a bridge that connects potential to proof and proof to capital”, emphasising its structured approach to helping participants turn ideas into validated business models.

Over successive cohorts, the iDICE Startup Bridge is expected to significantly boost Nigeria’s innovation pipeline and contribute to the growth of the country’s digital and creative sectors.