FG launches iDICE Startup Bridge for early-stage founders

Nigeria's federal government has launched the iDICE Startup Bridge, a structured two-track initiative offering idea-stage founders grants of up to ₦10 million ($7,215) and equity investment of $100,000 for post-MVP startups. Applications for the Founders Lab pathway opened March 16, 2026, with a 12-week capacity-building program targeting 250 participants annually. Top 100 founders meeting milestones receive ₦10 million grants to support product development. The Growth Lab, launching later, will provide $100,000 equity investment to post-MVP startups demonstrating traction. Financed by the Bank of Industry, African Development Bank, and others, the program aims to broaden Nigeria's innovation pipeline beyond Lagos and Abuja, targeting all 36 states and the FCT.

SOURCE: https://techcabal.com/2026/03/16/idice-first-cohort-now-open/