Apply for the iDICE Startup Bridge – Founders Lab Programme (Nigeria) @Founders Lab Programme (Nigeria)

Apply for the iDICE Startup Bridge – Founders Lab Programme (Nigeria)

The iDICE Startup Bridge – Founders Lab is a transformative programme designed for aspiring entrepreneurs at the earliest stages of their journey. Whether starting with just an idea, an early prototype, or a minimum viable product (MVP), the Founders Lab provides the structure, guidance, and practical support needed to take the first meaningful steps toward building a successful business.

This programme is tailored for founders who are ready to move beyond ideation and begin shaping their concepts into viable products and sustainable business models. Through a hands-on, “learning by doing” approach, participants are guided through the critical early phases of entrepreneurship—from refining ideas to validating market demand and developing clear business strategies.

Programme Overview

The Founders Lab focuses on equipping participants with practical entrepreneurial skills while supporting them with resources to accelerate their growth. Over the course of a 12-week structured programme, selected founders will engage in intensive learning sessions, mentorship, and guided assignments designed to help them develop their ideas into well-defined products and business plans.

A key feature of the programme is the integration of funding support, which is layered into the experience to help participants make tangible progress as they build. This ensures that founders not only learn but also implement, test, and refine their ideas in real-world conditions.

Participants will also have the opportunity to present their progress during a Demo Day, where they can showcase their startups, gain visibility, and potentially attract further support or partnerships.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the iDICE Startup Bridge – Founders Lab Programme, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• The business must be at the idea stage or undergoing market validation
• The proposed business must be intended to operate within Nigeria (any of the 36 states or the FCT, Abuja)
• Applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 35 years
• Must be able to fully commit to the 12-week structured programme
• Must demonstrate willingness to actively participate in all programme components, including learning sessions, assignments, evaluations, and Demo Day activities

Who Should Apply

The programme is ideal for young Nigerians who are passionate about entrepreneurship and are looking for a supportive environment to turn their ideas into reality. It is particularly suited for individuals who need direction, mentorship, and access to resources to move from concept to execution.

Aspiring founders who are curious, disciplined, and willing to learn will benefit most from this experience, especially those who are committed to building impactful and scalable solutions within Nigeria.

Application Process

Interested candidates can learn more about the programme and submit their applications through the official portal below:

Founders Lab

Link

Conclusion

The iDICE Startup Bridge – Founders Lab offers a valuable opportunity for early-stage entrepreneurs to gain the skills, structure, and support needed to launch and grow their ventures. By combining hands-on learning with mentorship and funding support, the programme empowers young founders to take bold steps toward building sustainable and impactful businesses in Nigeria.