Manny Ita –
The Federal Government has officially launched the iDICE Startup Bridge, a ₦617 million initiative designed to accelerate the growth of high-potential startups across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, in a move aimed at decentralising the country’s innovation ecosystem.
The programme, unveiled in partnership with the African Development Bank, is expected to provide a combination of mentorship, technical support and equity funding to more than 100 selected startups operating in critical sectors of the economy.
Officials said the initiative forms part of broader efforts to expand opportunities for entrepreneurs outside traditional tech hubs such as Lagos and Abuja, while strengthening regional innovation clusters and unlocking new economic value nationwide.
Speaking at the launch, a senior government representative described the programme as “a strategic intervention to bridge the gap between early-stage innovation and scalable enterprise,” adding that “talent exists across the country, and this initiative ensures that geography no longer limits opportunity.”
The iDICE Startup Bridge is also expected to connect emerging founders with experienced mentors, investors and global networks, providing structured support that will enable startups to refine their business models and access new markets.
According to programme coordinators, the selection process will prioritise startups with strong growth potential and scalable solutions in sectors including fintech, agritech, healthtech and clean energy, with a focus on fostering inclusive development.
Development partners emphasised that the initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to promote entrepreneurship as a key driver of job creation and economic diversification. A representative of the African Development Bank noted that “supporting innovation ecosystems is critical to building resilient economies and empowering the next generation of African entrepreneurs.”
Industry stakeholders have welcomed the launch, noting that expanding access to funding and mentorship beyond established urban centres could significantly boost Nigeria’s startup pipeline and reduce regional disparities in access to capital.
The Federal Government reiterated its commitment to sustaining policies that encourage innovation, stating that the iDICE Startup Bridge marks “a new phase in building a truly national technology ecosystem where startups from every region can thrive and compete globally.”
