Bet9ja Foundation ScaleUp Business Accelerator 2.0: Get Up to ₦3M Grants for Nigerian Startups
Are you a Nigerian entrepreneur ready to take your business to the next level? The Bet9ja Foundation ScaleUp Business Accelerator 2.0 offers a chance to get up to ₦3 million in grant funding, plus training and mentorship. This program targets high-potential startups and small businesses in Nigeria, helping them grow without giving up ownership.
What Is the Bet9ja Foundation ScaleUp Business Accelerator 2.0?
The Bet9ja Foundation runs this 10-week program as its main effort to support entrepreneurship. It picks promising Nigerian small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and startups. Participants get non-dilutive grants, which means no equity is required in return. They also receive structured training, one-on-one mentorship, and links to markets and investors.
At the end, businesses join the ScaleUp Pitch Challenge. The winner gets an extra ₦2 million grant. The goal is to help these companies scale up and boost Nigeria’s economy. Applications opened recently, with a deadline of April 30, 2026.
Key Benefits for Participants
This accelerator provides real tools for growth. Here are the main perks:
- Mentorship: Pair with industry experts for personalized advice. They guide you on challenges specific to your field.
- Funding: Receive up to ₦3 million in grants to expand operations. No need to share profits or control.
- Growth Opportunities: Connect with investors, partners, and a network of past participants. Gain entry to new markets.
These supports help businesses move from early stages to sustainable success. Many alumni have used them to increase revenue and reach more customers.
Who Can Apply? Business Eligibility
Not every business qualifies. Check these requirements first:
- Registered in Nigeria with CAC or a Business Name.
- Running for at least 6 months.
- Making revenue already.
- Showing traction, like sales, customers, or test programs.
- Ready to scale beyond the current market.
Your business must prove it has strong potential to grow larger.
Founder Requirements
The people behind the business matter too. Founders must:
- Be Nigerian citizens or legal residents.
- Aged 22 to 40 when applying.
- Actively run the business as founder or co-founder.
- Commit fully to the 10-week program.
Full participation means attending sessions and applying feedback.
Eligible Industries
The program accepts a broad range of sectors. It fits businesses with scaling power. Here is the full list:
- Agriculture & Agritech
- Healthcare Services & HealthTech
- Fintech & Financial Services
- EdTech & Skills Development
- Renewable Energy & CleanTech
- Retail & E-commerce
- Light Manufacturing & Production
- Logistics & Transportation
- Fashion & Lifestyle
- Professional & Business Services
- Hospitality & Tourism
- Creative Industries & Media
- Others
If your idea fits one of these or has similar impact, apply.
How to Apply for the Program
The process is straightforward. Visit the official application page at bet9jafoundation.org/scaleup/apply. Fill out the form with details about your business, traction, and growth plans. Submit before April 30, 2026.
For full details, check the main program site: Bet9ja Foundation ScaleUp. Prepare strong evidence of your revenue and potential to stand out. Selected teams start the accelerator soon after.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Bet9ja Foundation ScaleUp Business Accelerator 2.0?
It is a 10-week program that offers non-dilutive grants up to ₦3 million, training, mentorship, and networking to high-potential Nigerian SMEs and startups.
Who can apply for the program?
Businesses must be registered in Nigeria, running for at least 6 months with revenue and traction, in eligible industries; founders must be Nigerian citizens or residents aged 22-40 and actively involved.
What are the key benefits?
Participants get mentorship from experts, up to ₦3 million in grants without giving up equity, and connections to investors and markets, plus a chance to win an extra ₦2 million at the Pitch Challenge.
How do I apply and what is the deadline?
Visit bet9jafoundation.org/scaleup/apply, fill out the form with business details and growth plans, and submit by April 30, 2026.