The Enugu MSME & Startup Agency (Enugu SME Center) has announced that applications are now open for the iDICE Startup Bridge program, the first flagship component of the $617.7 million Federal i-DICE initiative.
The program is designed to build Nigeria’s next generation of innovators by providing structured support and capital pathways required to scale early-stage and growth-stage startups.
Two Dedicated Labs for Different Stages
According to the announcement, the program features two dedicated labs tailored to different stages of startup development:
· Founders Lab (Early-Stage): For founders with validated ideas, focusing on business modeling, customer discovery, and go-to-market strategies.
· Growth Lab (Accelerator): For post-MVP startups ready for institutional investment, focusing on operations optimization, governance, and organizational leadership for rapid scale.
What Participants Gain
Selected startups will benefit from a 12-week intensive hybrid learning program led by industry experts and top-tier investors. Participants will also gain direct access to experienced mentors who have built and scaled successful ventures.
In terms of funding, Founders Lab participants can access performance-based grants of up to ₦10 million, while Growth Lab participants will be positioned for equity-based investment opportunities.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the program, applicants must be Nigerian citizens aged 18 to 35 years, with businesses focused on tech-enabled or creative sector ventures (including gaming, animation, film, and related fields). Applicants must also be ready for a high-intensity, cohort-based journey from April to August 2026.
How to Apply
Interested founders are encouraged to apply before the deadline of April 20, 2026, via the application portal at www.idicestartupbridge.ng. The Enugu SME Center serves as the state focal point for the initiative.
“The journey from a local idea to a globally scalable venture starts in Enugu. Don’t let the deadline pass you by!” the agency stated.