Deadline: April 19, 2026
The Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) Founders Lab Programme 2026 is a transformative initiative designed to empower early-stage entrepreneurs and innovators across Nigeria’s rapidly growing digital and creative sectors. The programme seeks to nurture innovative founders who are building scalable businesses capable of driving economic growth, creating employment opportunities, and strengthening Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem.
The Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) Founders Lab Programme 2026 provides a structured support system for entrepreneurs to refine their ideas, build sustainable business models, and access valuable mentorship and networks. Through this initiative, founders will gain the tools, knowledge, and connections needed to scale their startups and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s digital economy.
The programme forms part of the broader Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) initiative, a major effort aimed at supporting innovation, entrepreneurship, and job creation among young Nigerians.
Overview of the Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) Initiative
The Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) initiative is a major programme designed to strengthen Nigeria’s digital and creative industries by supporting entrepreneurs and young innovators. The initiative aims to stimulate economic development by investing in businesses that leverage digital technologies and creative solutions.
Nigeria’s digital and creative sectors have become significant contributors to the national economy, with startups and creative enterprises driving innovation, job creation, and global competitiveness. However, many entrepreneurs face challenges such as limited access to mentorship, funding, and structured capacity-building programmes.
The iDICE initiative was created to address these challenges by providing targeted support to startups and entrepreneurs operating in technology, digital services, and creative industries.
Through programmes such as the Founders Lab, entrepreneurs are equipped with the necessary resources to develop innovative solutions and build scalable enterprises capable of competing in global markets.
About the iDICE Founders Lab Programme
The Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) Founders Lab Programme 2026 is specifically designed to support early-stage founders who are building innovative ventures in Nigeria’s digital and creative sectors.
The programme focuses on strengthening entrepreneurial capacity and preparing startups for growth and investment readiness. By providing access to mentorship, training, and industry networks, the Founders Lab helps entrepreneurs transform promising ideas into sustainable and scalable businesses.
Participants in the programme will receive structured support to refine their products, strengthen their business models, and improve their ability to attract investment.
The Founders Lab Programme is particularly valuable for founders who are at the early stages of building their ventures and require guidance, resources, and connections to accelerate their growth.
Objectives of the Programme
The Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) Founders Lab Programme 2026 aims to achieve several key objectives that support the growth of Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem.
1. Strengthening Entrepreneurial Capacity
One of the primary goals of the programme is to equip entrepreneurs with the skills and knowledge required to build and scale successful businesses. Founders will gain access to entrepreneurship training that covers areas such as business strategy, product development, and market expansion.
2. Supporting Innovation in Digital and Creative Sectors
The programme encourages innovative solutions that leverage digital technologies and creative approaches to address real-world challenges. By supporting innovative entrepreneurs, the programme contributes to the advancement of Nigeria’s technology and creative industries.
3. Preparing Startups for Investment
Many early-stage startups struggle to secure funding due to a lack of investment readiness. The Founders Lab provides founders with the knowledge and mentorship needed to prepare their ventures for investment opportunities.
4. Connecting Founders with Ecosystem Stakeholders
Participants will have opportunities to engage with mentors, investors, and ecosystem partners who can support the growth of their ventures. These connections are critical for entrepreneurs seeking to scale their businesses and access funding.
Target Sectors
The Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) Founders Lab Programme 2026 focuses on startups operating within Nigeria’s digital and creative economy. These sectors represent some of the most dynamic and rapidly growing areas of the country’s economy.
Eligible sectors include:
- Technology and digital startups
- Artificial intelligence and emerging technologies
- Digital platforms and software development
- Creative industries such as film, music, animation, and gaming
- Digital media and content creation
- Creative technology solutions
Entrepreneurs working in these sectors are encouraged to apply, particularly those developing innovative solutions that have the potential to scale across Nigeria and beyond.
Programme Benefits
The Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) Founders Lab Programme 2026 offers a range of benefits designed to support startup founders throughout their entrepreneurial journey.
Entrepreneurship Training
Participants will receive structured training designed to strengthen their entrepreneurial capabilities. These training sessions cover key areas such as product development, customer acquisition, business strategy, and scaling operations.
Mentorship from Industry Experts
Selected founders will have access to experienced mentors who provide guidance on building sustainable businesses. Mentors may include successful entrepreneurs, industry professionals, and ecosystem leaders.
Access to Networks and Partnerships
Networking opportunities are an essential part of the programme. Founders will be introduced to partners, collaborators, and investors who can help accelerate the growth of their ventures.
Investment Readiness Support
Participants will learn how to prepare their startups for funding opportunities. This includes developing investor-ready pitch decks, refining business models, and understanding funding pathways.
Exposure to the Innovation Ecosystem
The programme connects entrepreneurs to Nigeria’s broader innovation ecosystem, providing opportunities to interact with investors, accelerators, and technology leaders.
Who Should Apply
The Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) Founders Lab Programme 2026 is ideal for:
- Early-stage startup founders in Nigeria
- Entrepreneurs building digital or technology-driven ventures
- Innovators operating in the creative economy
- Founders seeking mentorship and capacity building
- Entrepreneurs looking to prepare their startups for investment
The programme is particularly suitable for founders who are passionate about innovation and are committed to building scalable businesses that can create meaningful impact in Nigeria’s economy.
Why the iDICE Programme Matters
Nigeria’s digital and creative sectors have immense potential to drive economic growth and create employment opportunities for millions of young people. However, the growth of these sectors depends heavily on the availability of support systems that enable entrepreneurs to succeed.
The Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) Founders Lab Programme 2026 plays a crucial role in strengthening these sectors by empowering entrepreneurs with the tools and resources needed to succeed.
By supporting innovative startups, the programme contributes to the development of a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem in Nigeria. It also helps position Nigeria as a leading hub for digital innovation and creative enterprise in Africa.
Through initiatives like the Founders Lab, entrepreneurs are not only able to build successful businesses but also contribute to broader economic transformation and job creation.
How to Apply
Entrepreneurs interested in participating in the Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) Founders Lab Programme 2026 can submit their applications through the official programme portal.
Applicants are encouraged to prepare key information about their startups, including their business models, products, and growth plans. This information will help the programme organisers evaluate the potential impact and scalability of each venture.
Applying early is recommended to ensure adequate time for completing all application requirements.
.
Need Help Preparing a Strong Application?
Preparing a compelling application can significantly improve your chances of being selected for competitive programmes such as the Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) Founders Lab Programme 2026. A well-structured application clearly communicates your startup’s vision, impact potential, and scalability.
If you need professional support with proposal drafting, refining, or reviewing your application to improve its quality and competitiveness, you can contact us for assistance.
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review.
