Founder Lab Cohort 2 and iDICE Growth Lab 2026: Eligibility, Benefits and How to Apply

Founder Lab Cohort 2 application is ongoing. Who can apply? Am I eligible? Is it free? What will I gain? How do I apply? What mistakes should I avoid?

If you’re a young Nigerian graduate or aspiring entrepreneur with a technology-driven business idea, the Founder Lab Cohort 2 application is now open. The programme is part of the Startup Bridge initiative under the Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) programme, implemented in partnership with the Bank of Industry (BOI).

Designed for early-stage founders, the 12-week programme provides practical business training, expert mentorship and investment-readiness support to help entrepreneurs build sustainable businesses and attract funding.

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Highlights

• Founder Lab Cohort 2 applications are now open.
• Nigerian entrepreneurs aged 18 to 35 years can apply.
• The programme runs for 12 weeks from September 2026.
• Training is delivered through self-paced, virtual and in-person sessions.
• Application closes on July 26, 2026.

What is Founder Lab?

Founder Lab is a business development programme created to support young Nigerians building innovative, technology-enabled businesses.

Rather than offering only classroom lessons, participants receive practical guidance on validating business ideas, developing sustainable business models, preparing for investors and scaling their startups.

For many graduates struggling to secure employment, programmes like this provide another pathway to building a career through entrepreneurship instead of waiting for traditional jobs.

If you’ve been exploring government-backed opportunities, you may also find our guide on the FG TVET Programme helpful, where we explained how free skills training can help young Nigerians become self-employed or gain industry-relevant skills before starting a business.

Who Can Apply?

You are eligible if you:

• Are a Nigerian citizen.
• Are between 18 and 35 years old.
• Have an innovative business or startup that uses technology.
• Can commit to the full 12-week programme.
• Are willing to participate in both online and physical sessions.

The programme is open to founders at the early stage of building their businesses, provided they have strong growth potential.

What Will Successful Applicants Receive?

Selected participants will benefit from:

• Entrepreneurship training.
• Business strategy development.
• Mentorship from experienced founders and industry experts.
• Investment-readiness support.
• Networking opportunities.
• Access to future funding pathways.

While the programme does not promise immediate funding for every participant, completing it can significantly improve your chances of attracting investors.

Programme Details

Documents and Information You’ll Need Before Applying

The application consists of several stages, so prepare the following information before you begin:

• Your full name.
• Valid email address.
• Active phone number.
• Date of birth.
• Residential address.
• State of residence.
• State of origin.
• Educational qualification.
• Details about your business.
• Access to a smartphone or computer.
• Availability to participate throughout the 12-week programme.

You will also be asked whether this is your first business, whether you own other businesses and whether you have any accessibility needs.

Can Students and NYSC Members Apply?

Yes, provided you meet the age requirement and can dedicate time to complete the programme.

However, because the programme includes assignments, online meetings and physical hub sessions, ensure your academic schedule, NYSC posting or work commitments will not prevent you from participating.

How to Apply for Founder Lab Cohort 2

Follow these steps:

1. Visit the official Founder Lab application portal via idicestartupbridge.ng/growth-lab/
2. Complete your personal information.
3. Enter your education and business details.
4. Confirm your availability for the 12-week programme.
5. Review your application carefully.
6. Submit before July 26, 2026.

Do not wait until the final day, as heavy traffic or internet issues could delay your submission.

CutOffMark.ng Advice

Many young Nigerians focus only on recruitment exercises after graduation. While applying for jobs is important, programmes like Founder Lab can help you build valuable entrepreneurial skills, expand your professional network and prepare your business for investment.

If you’re interested in creating your own employment opportunities instead of relying solely on recruitment, this programme is worth considering.

As you continue searching for scholarships, government training programmes and career opportunities, keep checking CutOffMark.ng because we regularly publish verified opportunities that can help students, graduates and young professionals move closer to their career goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Founder Lab free?

Yes. Eligible applicants can apply without paying an application fee.

What is the age requirement?

Applicants must be between 18 and 35 years old at the time of application.

How long is the programme?

The programme lasts 12 weeks.

When is the application deadline?

Applications close on July 26, 2026.

Is the programme online?

It is a blended programme consisting of self-paced learning, virtual sessions and in-person hub activities.

Who should apply?

Young Nigerians building innovative, technology-enabled businesses with strong growth potential.

iDICE Growth Lab 2026 Application Opens for Nigerian Tech Startups, Up to $350,000 Investment Available

This opportunity is different from Founder Lab. Founder Lab targets early-stage founders, while Growth Lab is designed for more established tech startups that are ready to scale and raise investment.

Nigerian technology startups looking to scale their businesses can now apply for the iDICE Growth Lab 2026 programme. The initiative is designed to help high-potential startups accelerate growth through investment, mentorship, business support and access to industry experts.

Unlike Founder Lab, which focuses on helping aspiring entrepreneurs build strong business foundations, Growth Lab is intended for startups that are already operating and are preparing to scale. If you’re still at the idea or early startup stage, read our guide on Founder Lab Cohort 2, where we explained the eligibility requirements, application process and benefits for first-time founders.

Highlights

• Applications for iDICE Growth Lab 2026 are now open.
• Nigerian technology startups can apply.
• Selected startups may receive $100,000 (or Naira equivalent) in investment for 7.5% equity.
• Participants may qualify for up to $250,000 in additional follow-on investment after meeting programme milestones.
• The programme also offers structured business growth support, investment readiness training and mentorship from industry experts.

What is the iDICE Growth Lab?

Growth Lab is an accelerator programme under the Startup Bridge initiative of the Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) Programme.

Its goal is to help promising Nigerian startups grow faster by providing capital, business advisory services and connections with investors and experienced entrepreneurs.

The programme forms part of the Federal Government’s efforts to encourage innovation, entrepreneurship and job creation within Nigeria’s digital and creative economy.

Who Should Apply?

This opportunity is suitable for:

• Nigerian technology startups.
• Founders with businesses that are already operating.
• Startups looking to scale their products or services.
• Entrepreneurs seeking investment and business growth support.

If you’re only developing your business idea or launching your first startup, Founder Lab may be a better starting point before applying for Growth Lab.

Benefits of the Programme

Successful applicants may receive:

• $100,000 cash investment (or Naira equivalent) in exchange for 7.5% equity, subject to the programme’s terms and conditions.
• Up to $250,000 in additional investment after achieving programme growth milestones.
• Structured business growth support.
• Investment readiness coaching.
• Mentorship from experienced industry experts.
• Access to networks that can help startups expand and attract investors.

Who Funds the Programme?

The iDICE Programme is a Federal Government of Nigeria intervention implemented by the Bank of Industry (BOI).

It is co-financed by:

• African Development Bank (AfDB)
• Agence Française de Développement (AFD)
• Islamic Development Bank (IsDB)

The programme is designed to promote entrepreneurship, innovation and job creation across Nigeria’s digital and creative sectors.

How to Apply

Interested founders should submit their applications through the official iDICE Growth Lab application portal before the application window closes.

Before applying, ensure your startup information, business records and growth plans are ready, as these may be required during the assessment process.

CutOffMark.ng Advice

Many entrepreneurs focus only on the size of the investment, but investors also evaluate whether a startup has a scalable business model, clear market demand and the ability to grow sustainably. Before submitting your application, make sure you can clearly explain the problem your startup solves, your target customers and how you plan to use the investment.

If your startup is still in its early stages and you’re not yet investment-ready, consider applying for Founder Lab first. The programme is specifically designed to help founders build the skills and business foundation needed before seeking major investment.

As always, CutOffMark.ng will continue to publish verified entrepreneurship programmes, graduate opportunities, scholarships and career development initiatives to help young Nigerians build successful careers beyond traditional employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Growth Lab only for tech startups?

Yes. The programme targets technology-enabled startups with strong growth potential.

How much investment can selected startups receive?

Eligible startups may receive $100,000 (or Naira equivalent) for 7.5% equity, with the possibility of receiving up to $250,000 in follow-on investment after meeting programme milestones.

Is the investment guaranteed?

No. The investment is subject to the programme’s assessment process and terms and conditions.

Who implements the programme?

The programme is implemented by the Bank of Industry (BOI) under the Federal Government’s iDICE Programme, with support from international development partners.

Is this different from Founder Lab?

Yes. Founder Lab is designed for early-stage entrepreneurs building their businesses, while Growth Lab is intended for startups that are ready to scale and raise investment.

A comparison section is a great addition because it helps readers quickly decide which programme fits them. You can insert this after explaining both programmes.

Founder Lab Cohort 2 vs iDICE Growth Lab: Which Should You Apply For?

Which Programme Should You Choose?

Choose Founder Lab Cohort 2 if you are just starting your entrepreneurial journey, have a business idea or an early-stage startup, and need practical training, mentorship and guidance before seeking investors.

Choose iDICE Growth Lab if your technology startup is already operating, has demonstrated growth potential and is looking for investment, expert support and resources to scale.

CutOffMark.ng Advice: Don’t apply simply because of the funding amount. Select the programme that matches your startup’s current stage. A founder who isn’t yet investment-ready will often gain more value from Founder Lab, while startups with proven traction may benefit more from Growth Lab’s funding and scale-up support.