The Nigerian Capital Development Fund (NCDF), in partnership with the National Board for Technology Incubation and the London School of Social Enterprise and Sustainable Economics, has opened applications for the 2025 edition of the Fortune Entrepreneur Accelerator, Summit, and Venture Capital Programme.
This initiative, set to conclude with a national summit in Benin City, Edo State in September 2025, aims to identify, nurture, and support 1,000 high-potential startups across key sectors such as agriculture, energy, financial technology, healthcare, manufacturing, creative industries, and climate innovation.
Central to the initiative is the NCDF Opportunity Growth Fund, which offers up to N50 million in equity investment to selected ventures. The fund is geared towards unlocking over $10 billion in long-term economic value, while promoting wealth creation, youth engagement, and technological progress in Nigeria.
The Fortune Entrepreneur Programme is positioned as more than just a startup accelerator. It serves as a nationwide platform to cultivate innovative enterprises capable of competing globally and contributing significantly to Nigeria’s economic transformation.
Key features of the programme include:
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Business Development Support: Startups receive guidance to strengthen their business models, strategies, and overall operations.
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Compliance Training: Participants are equipped with knowledge to ensure adherence to industry regulations and standards.
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Investment Readiness: The programme enhances participants’ ability to attract and secure funding through tailored investment preparation.
The Fortune Entrepreneur Summit will showcase live startup pitches, exhibitions, masterclasses, and direct engagement with potential investors.
Participants will also gain long-term access to venture capital and scale-up support through the NCDF Opportunity Growth Fund.
Participation Fee: N50,000
Eligibility Requirements:
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Nigerian citizens aged 18 to 45
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Startups at the idea, minimum viable product (MVP), or growth stage
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Ventures led by women or youth, and those that are tech-enabled
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Strong potential for social and economic impact
