Six-month free incubation in Lagos with training, mentoring, and up to €30,000 in funding for prototype development. For entrepreneurs aged 18–35 with a validated business idea under 2 years old that addresses a Nigerian challenge.
A free 6-month incubation programme for young entrepreneurs in Lagos. It is funded by the Dutch government and run by FATE Foundation. Participants get training, mentoring and funding for prototype development and testing, which secondary sources put at up to €30,000, plus links to further finance.
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Applications are reviewed by the FATE Foundation team against the eligibility criteria and innovation potential. Shortlisted applicants are usually invited to a pitch or interview session. Selected founders enter the 6-month programme, which includes cohort-based training, one-on-one mentoring, and staged access to the €30,000 funding as milestones are met.
What reviewers look for
You are not eligible for this cohort. However, FATE Foundation typically runs other programmes; check their website for offerings suited to later-stage businesses.
The programme does not state a formal registration requirement, but you should be able to prove that your business operations are based in Lagos. This could be through a registered business name, a physical address, or evidence of trading.
The full amount is up to €30,000; the actual sum and payment schedule depend on your business needs and the milestones you hit during the incubation. This is discussed during onboarding.
Yes. Training, mentoring, and the incubation space are provided free. The €30,000 is grant funding, not a loan.
Graduates receive support in accessing further finance and investor networks. Some go on to raise from other sources; others continue to grow independently.
Guide written from the official programme page on 15 October 2026. Funders change their rules, so confirm the details on the official page before you apply.
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