iDICE Startup Bridge Growth Lab
iDICE Startup Bridge – Growth Lab is the post MVP stage track under the Startup Bridge programme, designed for startups that have moved beyond idea stage and are ready to scale, professionalise operations, and raise institutional capital.
Growth Lab supports founders who already have a working product—or a very solid, validated idea—and are now focused on traction, growth, and long-term sustainability.
The programme combines structured learning, hands-on support, mentorship, and equity-based investment, delivered through a hybrid format.
Growth Lab supports founders who already have a working product—or a very solid, validated idea—and are now focused on traction, growth, and long-term sustainability.
The programme combines structured learning, hands-on support, mentorship, and equity-based investment, delivered through a hybrid format.
Who Growth Lab is For
This programme is for founders who are no longer asking “Should I build this?” …but “How do I grow this properly?”
Growth Lab is designed for startups that:
- Have launched an MVP or
- Have a very solid idea with strong market validation
- Are building scalable digital or tech businesses
- Are ready to commit to an intensive growth programme
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for iDICE Startup Bridge – Growth Lab, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Founder or co-founder of a digital or creative startup
- Product is at post-MVP stage or demonstrates strong market validation
- Evidence of traction (users, pilots, revenue, partnerships, or strong demand signals)
- Business is operating in Nigeria or targeting the Nigerian market
- Founder is able to commit to a 12-week hybrid programme
- Willingness to accept equity-based investment under programme terms
Selection is competitive and based on:
Strength of the product and market opportunity
Evidence of validation or traction
Founder capability and commitment
Growth potential and scalability
Programme Structure
iDICE Startup Bridge – Growth Lab runs for 12 weeks and is delivered through a hybrid model, combining virtual programming with in-person engagement. The programme includes:
01.
Remote learning and mentorship sessions
02.
Three weeks of in-person programming in Lagos, focused on deep strategy work, investor readiness, founder collaboration and peer learning
03.
Hands-on support from mentors, operators, and advisors
04.
Structured preparation for investment and scaling
Programme Focus Areas
The programme is practical, fast-paced, and designed for founders actively scaling. During the 12 weeks, startups are supported across key growth areas, including:
How Funding Works in iDICE Startup Bridge – Growth Lab
Funding is a central component of Startup Bridge – Growth Lab and is designed to support startups that are ready to scale in a structured, responsible way.
Primary Investment
Startups selected into Growth Lab receive:
- Equity-based investment of up to $100,000
(provided in Nigerian Naira at the prevailing exchange rate at the time of investment)
Investment terms, including equity structure, are shared with selected startups during onboarding.
This investment is intended to support:
- Product and technology improvement
- Market expansion and customer growth
- Team and operational scaling
- Strengthening business fundamentals for long-term growth
- Important to note
- All funding under Growth Lab is equity-based
- Additional funding is not guaranteed
- Matching funds must meet programme-defined criteria
- Funding decisions are tied to performance, readiness, and diligence outcomes
Additional Growth Capital (For Outstanding Performers)
Startups that demonstrate exceptional performance, traction, and growth potential during the programme may be eligible for:
- Additional funding of up to $125,000
subject to the following condition: The startup must be able to secure matching funds from qualified investors or partners.
This matching-fund structure is designed to:
- Crowd in external capital
- Validate market and investor confidence
- Enable faster and more sustainable scaling
Eligibility for this additional funding is competitive and based on:
- Demonstrated traction and growth metrics
- Quality of execution during the programme
- Ability to attract credible matching capital
- Important to note
- All funding under Growth Lab is equity-based
- Additional funding is not guaranteed
- Matching funds must meet programme-defined criteria
- Funding decisions are tied to performance, readiness, and diligence outcomes
Programme Benefits
Startups in Growth Lab receive:
01.
A structured, growth-focused accelerator programme
02.
Equity-based capital to support scaling
03.
Access to experienced mentors and operators
04.
In-person founder immersion and collaboration in Lagos
05.
Investor exposure and pitch opportunities
06.
Continued access to the iDice Startup Bridge ecosystem
What Growth Lab is and is Not
This programme is for founders ready to move from validation to growth.
Growth Lab Is
- An early-stage accelerator with real capital
- Designed for startups ready to scale
- Focused on execution, metrics, and outcomes
Growth Lab is not
- A grant-based initiative
- A passive learning experience
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Growth Lab?
Growth Lab is the scale-focused track under iDICE Startup Bridge for post-MVP startups with early traction, seeking structured growth, operational refinement,capital and ecosystem partnerships
What stage qualifies as “post-MVP”?
You have a working product and some measurable traction (users, revenue, pilots, or partnerships). Preferably, less than 9 months post launch.
How much funding is available?
Eligible startups may access up to $100,000 (or Naira equivalent, subject to disbursement structure).
Who is Growth Lab for?
It is designed for:
- Post MVP Startups
- Businesses with validated products
How is Growth Lab different from Founders Lab?
Founders Lab focuses on validation and early execution.
Growth Lab focuses on scale, operational excellence, and capital readiness.
What type of funding is provided?
Growth Lab funding is equity-based, meaning investment is made in exchange for an ownership stake, structured according to agreed valuation and investment terms.
Is funding available in Growth Lab?
Yes. All selected Growth Lab founders are eligible for equity-based funding of up to $100,000 USD.
What are the eligibility requirements?
Applicants typically must demonstrate:
- Deployed MVP
- Operational structure
- Financial records
- Growth strategy
What are the programme outcomes?
Participants should exit with:
- Refined growth strategy
- Strengthened financial management systems
- Clear Ecosystem Partnership
- Improved governance structure
- Investment-ready data room
- Scalable operational model
How long does Growth Lab run?
The programme runs for 12 weeks.
Is attendance mandatory?
Yes. Active participation and milestone completion are required
What level of reporting is required?
Participants must provide periodic performance updates and may be required to submit financial and operational data.
Can startups outside major cities apply?
Yes, all states in Nigeria are eligible to apply.
What support is provided beyond funding?
Support includes:
- Mentorship
- Technical advisory
- Business strategy sessions
- Investment preparation support
- Network access
What happens after Growth Lab?
Startups may transition into structured investment consideration, ecosystem partnerships, or advanced capital pathways.
Apply Now for Growth Lab
Eligible startups are invited to apply to iDice Startup Bridge – Growth Lab when applications open. Applications are reviewed through a multi-stage screening and due diligence process.
