APPLICATIONS CLOSED
The Founders Support Initiative received an overwhelming response from entrepreneurs across Africa. Applications officially closed on July 31, 2026 and our evaluation committee has commenced the review process.
A quick overview of this application cycle.
Applications Started
Strong turnoutSuccessful Payments
33.9% completionEligible For Review
100% of paidApplication Fee
₦298,000 totalKey metrics at a glance.
Entrepreneurs across Nigeria began their FSI journey
33.9% proceeded to pay the ₦1,000 application fee
All paid applications now under committee evaluation
The Founders Support Initiative is launching its inaugural cohort to empower Nigerian entrepreneurs through grants, mentorship, and resources. Our mission is to foster innovation, support business growth, and create sustainable impact across communities. We're committed to a transparent, merit-based selection process for early-stage startups.
Four distinct funding tracks for diverse entrepreneurial needs
For early-stage businesses across all sectors seeking seed funding to validate ideas and achieve product-market fit.
Founders aged 18-35 building innovative solutions. Special focus on scalable business models with high growth potential.
Supporting female-led enterprises with dedicated mentorship and funding to close the gender gap in entrepreneurship.
Tech solutions solving local problems in fintech, healthtech, edtech, agritech, and climate tech sectors.
879 entrepreneurs started the application process, showing strong interest nationwide and validating the need for accessible startup funding.
298 successfully completed payment of the ₦1,000 fee, totaling ₦298,000 in application fees to support program operations.
298 applications are currently eligible for review by our evaluation committee, representing a 33.9% conversion rate from start to completion.
Applications are now officially closed. Results will be announced Q4 2026. Join our mailing list to get notified.
Answers for applicants of our inaugural cohort
Our evaluation committee is currently reviewing all 298 eligible applications. Results will be announced in Q4 2026. All applicants will be notified via email, and the list will be published on this website. Please ensure you check the email you used for registration.
If your payment was successful but you didn't get a confirmation, check your spam/junk folder first. If it's not there, email us at contact@founderssupport.org with your payment reference and full name. We'll verify and resend your confirmation within 48 hours.
Applications for the 2026 inaugural cohort are officially closed. We do not accept late submissions. However, you can join our waitlist below to be notified when applications open for Cohort 2 in 2027.
The exact number of grants depends on the quality of applications and available funding for this inaugural cycle. Our committee will shortlist based on innovation, impact potential, and business viability. Final numbers will be announced with the results.
1. General Startup Grant: Early-stage businesses across all sectors.
2. Youth Grant: Founders aged 18-35.
3. Women in Business Grant: Female-led enterprises.
4. Innovation & Tech Grant: Tech solutions in fintech, healthtech, edtech, agritech, climate tech.
Selected entrepreneurs will be invited to a virtual onboarding session. You'll sign a grant agreement, receive the first disbursement, and be paired with a mentor. We'll also announce you publicly with your consent.
No, the application fee is non-refundable. It covers administrative costs for processing and reviewing applications. This was stated clearly during the application process.
No, applications are now locked for review. Edits were only allowed before payment submission. If you have critical updates, email contact@founderssupport.org, but we cannot guarantee changes will be considered at this stage.
For application-related queries: contact@founderssupport.org
For partnerships/media: contact@founderssupport.org
Follow us on Twitter/Instagram @founders support initiative.
July 31, 2026