Funding. Mentorship. Training. Global ecosystem access for ambitious entrepreneurs.
The Founders Support Initiative (FSI) exists to turn ambitious ideas into impactful, scalable businesses across Africa. Too many promising ventures never leave the drawing board due to lack of capital, guidance, or the right network. FSI was created to close that gap.
To unlock the next generation of African innovators by bridging the gap between ideas and execution. We back ventures that are profitable, scalable, and sustainable — businesses that grow across borders and create meaningful jobs.
Ambitious founders across Africa at the ideation to early stage. Whether you’re a first-time founder, a student with a bold concept, or a professional ready to go full-time — if you’re committed to building something that matters, FSI is for you.
We don’t just fund. We build alongside you.
We don’t just teach. We connect you to people who’ve done it before.
We don’t just talk impact. We back ventures that solve real problems for real people.
Your idea is valid. Let’s make it real.
Explore the core pillars of the Founders Support Initiative — designed to help you access funding, mentorship, and training to grow your startup.
Launching Our First Cohort
Be part of the very first group of ambitious African founders joining the Founders Support Initiative. Applications are now open — we’re building a Pan‑African, merit‑based ecosystem designed for long‑term impact.
Applications Now Open
Founder Focus
Selection Process
Founder Ecosystem
We don’t accept everyone. Our structured evaluation process identifies founders with high potential, strong execution ability, and real problem understanding.
You submit your startup idea, problem, solution, traction (if any), and founder profile. Clarity matters more than complexity.
⏱ 10–15 mins • Required
Our system and review team filter applications based on clarity, problem strength, and execution potential.
📊 Shortlisting stage
Shortlisted founders are evaluated on business model strength, market size, and ability to execute.
⚖️ Scored review process
Selected founders receive funding, mentorship, and entry into the FSI ecosystem.
🏆 Final decision stage
Our process follows a clear, transparent schedule so founders know exactly what to expect.
May 10
July 31
August
September
Capital provided in Naira to help you build and scale without giving up equity.
8–12 week startup execution program covering product, growth, and operations.
Guidance from experienced founders, operators, and ecosystem leaders.
Demo opportunities and access to future funding pathways.
Our process is competitive to ensure we support founders with strong execution ability and real problem understanding.
Get funding alerts, program updates and early access to future cohorts.
