Sola & Ibukun Adeyinka Foundation Opens Applications for Startup Foundry Cohort 3, Offers Up to $10,000 in Grants for Nigerian Entrepreneurs

The Sola & Ibukun Adeyinka Foundation has officially opened applications for the third cohort of its Startup Foundry programme, offering selected founders access to structured business training, expert mentorship, and grant funding of up to $10,000 shared across six high-potential ventures.

The Lagos-based nonprofit organisation is focused on strengthening Nigeria’s startup ecosystem by supporting early-stage businesses operating in high-impact sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, technology, manufacturing, and clean energy.

Bridging the Gap in Nigeria’s Startup Ecosystem

Startup Foundry was created to address one of the most pressing challenges facing Nigerian entrepreneurs: limited access to institutional support, early-stage funding, and structured business development resources.

Through an intensive programme that combines practical training, strategic mentorship, and seed capital support, founders are equipped with the tools required to refine their business models, improve operational systems, and position their startups for scalable growth.

The initiative is particularly relevant for entrepreneurs seeking startup grants in Nigeria, small business funding opportunities, business mentorship programmes, and access to investor-ready frameworks that enhance long-term sustainability.

What Selected Founders Will Receive

Participants in Cohort 3 will benefit from:

Hands-on business development training
Direct mentorship from experienced industry professionals
Strategic guidance on operations, finance, and growth planning
Access to grant funding of up to $10,000 shared among selected ventures
Exposure to a growing network of founders and ecosystem partners

The programme is structured to help founders strengthen internal systems, clarify market positioning, and improve financial discipline—critical components for attracting venture capital, angel investment, or growth-stage funding.

Growing National Interest and Impact

Since its launch, Startup Foundry has recorded increasing interest from entrepreneurs across Nigeria. Applications rose from 196 in the inaugural cohort to 417 in the second cohort, reflecting rising confidence in the programme’s ability to deliver measurable value.

The consistent growth in participation highlights the demand for credible startup accelerators in Nigeria that go beyond funding to provide structured mentorship and capacity building.

With the launch of Cohort 3, the Foundation is reinforcing its commitment to nurturing scalable Nigerian startups and expanding access to critical early-stage support across the country.

Focus on High-Impact Sectors

The programme prioritises startups operating in sectors with strong economic and social potential, including:

Agriculture and agribusiness innovation
Healthcare solutions and health technology
Technology-driven enterprises
Manufacturing and industrial solutions
Clean energy and climate-focused ventures

By concentrating on these sectors, the Foundation aims to stimulate job creation, strengthen local production, and support sustainable economic development within Nigeria.

Strengthening Nigeria’s Entrepreneurial Future

Cohort 3 represents another strategic step toward building a resilient pipeline of investor-ready startups capable of competing both locally and internationally. Beyond grant funding, the programme emphasises accountability, measurable impact, and sustainable growth.

For founders seeking business grants in Nigeria, startup accelerator programmes, small business funding support, or structured entrepreneurial training, Startup Foundry offers a credible pathway to scale.

Interested entrepreneurs are encouraged to review the eligibility criteria and submit their applications through the Foundation’s official channels before the deadline.

As Nigeria’s startup landscape continues to evolve, initiatives like Startup Foundry are playing a critical role in closing funding gaps, strengthening founder capacity, and accelerating the growth of high-impact ventures nationwide.