Applications Open: 2026 iDICE Founders Lab Programme for Nigerian Tech Startups
Applications are now open for the 2026 iDICE Founders Lab Programme. This program targets Nigerian entrepreneurs aged 18 to 35 who are building early-stage tech businesses. It offers a 12-week capacity-building experience with up to 7 million Naira in non-equity funding. The deadline is April 19, 2026. The initiative partners with the Bank of Industry through the Startup Bridge effort. This article covers eligibility rules, key benefits, funding paths, and how to apply.
The iDICE Founders Lab Programme serves as the core training part of Startup Bridge. It helps early-stage, tech-enabled businesses gain the skills, expert guidance, and funding access they need to grow. The program runs for 12 weeks and uses a mix of self-paced online sessions, virtual meetings, and in-person events. It fits founders who want real tools to succeed.
This program suits founders who:
- Have an idea or prototype ready
- Plan to build a digital or tech enterprise
- Intend to operate in Nigeria
- Need to learn more about their market, customers, and business model
- Can commit time to structured lessons and tasks
To qualify for the iDICE Founders Lab Programme, your business must fit certain rules. It should be at the idea stage or in early market tests. You plan to run it from any of Nigeria’s 36 states, the FCT in Abuja, or similar areas. The founder must be between 18 and 35 years old. You need to fully join the 12-week schedule, including sessions, homework, checks, and Demo Day events. This setup ensures you are ready to dive deep into market needs, customer insights, and solid business plans.
Funding comes for those who finish strong. Completers who hit all goals may get up to N7,000,000 in non-equity grants to start or launch their ventures. Access depends on reviews, milestone hits, and fit with iDICE standards. The path breaks into clear stages:
- Stage 1: Founders Lab Completion Grant – Finish the 12 weeks and meet learning rules to apply for builder grants. You need good progress checks.
- Stage 2: Demo Day – Outstanding Ideas – Top completers pitch ideas for grants based on performance.
- National Startup Bridge Demo Day – Standout startups with growth proof get invites to pitch nationally. This opens extra funding, partner links, and scale help.
The program packs real value for new tech founders in Nigeria. It gives hands-on tools and steps for startup work. You get a clear lesson plan built just for founders. Expert mentors from the ecosystem guide you. Peer groups let you learn from others like you. Regional hubs offer extra support networks. Strong performers unlock funding and paths to the next Growth Lab stage.
Ready to apply? Head to the official iDICE Founders Lab webpage now. The deadline of April 19, 2026, gives you time, but act soon to secure your spot.
Key Dates and Link
Application Deadline: April 19, 2026
Apply Here
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the iDICE Founders Lab Programme?
Nigerian entrepreneurs aged 18-35 building early-stage tech businesses with an idea or prototype, planning to operate in Nigeria, and able to commit to the full 12-week schedule.
What does the 12-week programme include?
A mix of self-paced online sessions, virtual meetings, in-person events, expert mentoring, peer learning, and tools to understand markets, customers, and business models.
How can participants get funding?
Completers meeting milestones apply for up to 7 million Naira in non-equity grants through stage 1 completion, Demo Day pitches, and the National Startup Bridge Demo Day.
When is the application deadline?
Applications close on April 19, 2026—head to startupbridge.ng to apply now and avoid missing out.