Female Founders & Funders Programme 2026 – Overview
Applications are now open for the Female Founders & Funders Programme 2026, a high-impact initiative designed to support women building innovative tech startups in Nigeria.
This program is a 6-week accelerator that equips female founders with the tools, mentorship, and investor connections needed to scale their businesses. It is specifically tailored for startups operating within or planning to expand into Lagos’ growing tech ecosystem.
Why This Programme Matters
Despite the rapid growth of the tech industry, women founders continue to face significant challenges, particularly in accessing funding and networks. Studies show that female-led startups receive a very small share of venture capital globally, limiting their ability to scale.
The Female Founders & Funders Programme aims to bridge this gap by providing:
- Access to investors and funding opportunities
- Structured mentorship from industry experts
- Training on building scalable and investment-ready startups
Key Benefits of the Programme
Participants selected for the 2026 cohort will gain:
- 1-on-1 mentorship from experienced founders and ecosystem leaders
- Expert-led training sessions on business growth, fundraising, and strategy
- Pitch deck development support
- Direct access to investors and partners
- Inclusion in the Lagos startup ecosystem network
The program concludes with an investor showcase, where founders present their startups to potential funders.
Who Should Apply?
This opportunity is ideal for women who are:
- Founders or co-founders of a startup
- Building a tech-enabled or innovative solution
- Solving a clear market or social problem
- Looking to scale and attract investment
Applicants should already have a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) or an existing business with traction.
Programme Location & Format
- Location: Lagos
- Format: Hybrid (physical sessions + virtual participation)
- Duration: 6 weeks
Weekly sessions are held in Lagos, with flexibility for remote engagement where necessary.
Important Dates
- Applications Open: March 2026
- Deadline: April 4, 2026
- Cohort Announcement: April 15, 2026
- Programme Duration: April – June 2026
📄 Application Process
To apply for the Female Founders & Funders Programme:
- Complete the online application form
- Provide details about your startup and team
- Highlight your product, traction, and market opportunity
- Submit before the application deadline
Shortlisted candidates will be selected based on innovation, scalability, and impact potential.
What Makes This Programme Unique?
Unlike many startup programs, this initiative focuses specifically on:
- Women-led innovation in tech
- Building investment-ready startups
- Connecting founders directly with funders and venture networks
It also provides a strong community of like-minded female entrepreneurs, fostering collaboration and long-term growth.
Apply Here
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💡 Tips to Increase Your Chances
To stand out in your application:
- Clearly explain the problem your startup solves
- Show evidence of traction or early success
- Demonstrate your growth potential and scalability
- Highlight your team’s strengths and vision
- Prepare a strong and clear pitch

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