FSDH Female Founders Growth Program 2026 for Nigerian Women-led Businesses (Up To $750,000 Equity Investment)

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Applications are open for FSDH Female Founders Growth Program 2026. The Female Founders Growth Programme is a structured investment readiness programme providing a pathway to real capital for ambitious Nigerian women-led businesses.

Powered by FSDH Merchant Bank, Africa Guarantee Fund, and WEAV Capital, the programme equips participants with the tools, strategic guidance, and investor readiness support needed to strengthen their businesses and position for funding opportunities.

Qualifying participants may access up to $2 million in combined debt and equity financing, including up to $750,000 in equity investment from WEAV Capital and between $200,000 and $1,000,000 in debt financing from FSDH Merchant Bank. Participants will also gain exposure to a curated network of early-stage investors and strategic ecosystem partners.

At the end of the programme, selected businesses will pitch to investors and financial institutions during the flagship Demo Day.

Why This Programme Matters.

Access to capital remains one of the biggest barriers to growth for many female founders. This programme is designed to help businesses bridge that gap by equipping participants with the knowledge, tools, and support required to become investment-ready.

Participants will learn how to:

Strengthen business and financial structures
Improve debt and equity readiness
Understand investor and lender expectations
Build investor-grade materials
Position their businesses for sustainable growth
Gain visibility with investors and financial institutions

Programme Highlights

Investment Readiness Training
Expert Support
In-Person Workshops
Pitch Competition & Demo Day

FSDH Female Founders Growth Program Benefits

Participants will benefit from:

Practical investment readiness training
Exposure to investors and financial institutions
Guidance from industry experts
Improved financial and operational structure
Stronger investor and lender positioning
Potential access to debt financing of up to $1,000,000 from FSDH Merchant Bank
Opportunity to secure equity investment of up to $750,000 from WEAV Capital

Eligibility Criteria

Have an existing and viable business with revenue
Be 2 years old or more
Either be (a) 50% or more owned by a female founder, OR (b) have a female in the C-suite (CEO or, COO, or CTO)
Demonstrate growth potential
Be seeking debt or equity capital
Be willing to commit to the full duration of the programme, including physical sessions
Operate as a technology company or technology-enabled business