Nigeria Enrolls 185 Founders in iDICE Startup Program

The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially enrolled 185 founders into the iDICE Startup Bridge program, marking a significant milestone in its initiative to invest in the digital creative enterprise sector. The program, which launched in 2023 with a budget of $617 million, aims to promote innovation and youth entrepreneurship as part of Nigeria's economic diversification strategy.

A total of 7,000 applications were received nationwide, with 500 candidates shortlisted through a multi-stage review process. The selected 185 entrepreneurs were chosen based on their innovative potential and market relevance.

The program includes a 12-week intensive mentorship and business development course, after which top performers will be eligible for grants of up to N10 million. The initiative is co-financed by the African Development Bank and the Bank of Industry, with a goal to establish 66 innovation hubs across the country and train 300,000 young Nigerians in digital creative skills.