Applications are now open for the Cascador ScaleUp Program 2026, a high-impact initiative designed for growth-stage founders across Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa.
The 12-week programme supports entrepreneurs who already have traction and are ready to scale their businesses with stronger leadership, better strategy, and access to capital opportunities.
Selected founders will receive a $5,000 stipend, expert mentorship, and the opportunity to pitch for up to $50,000 in prizes.
About the Program
The Cascador ScaleUp Program is a hybrid leadership and business development experience tailored for founders building companies with proven market fit.
The programme combines in-person and virtual learning sessions, mentorship from global experts, peer collaboration, and tailored business support.
Participants will strengthen their leadership capacity while gaining practical tools to scale sustainably and attract investment.
Since its launch in 2019, Cascador has supported over 70 ventures that have collectively raised more than $125 million and created thousands of jobs across Africa.
Program Benefits
Participants selected for the 2026 cohort will receive:
- A 12-week structured learning and leadership experience
- In-person and virtual sessions for founders and executive teams
- One-on-one mentorship from investors and experienced entrepreneurs
- A $5,000 stipend for personal development
- Fully covered travel, accommodation, and meals for in-person sessions
- Access to a strong network of peers and strategic partners
- Eligibility for Cascador’s Catalytic Fund, which deploys $2–5 million annually
- Opportunity to pitch at Demo Day and win up to $50,000 in prizes
What You Will Gain
The programme is designed to help founders move to the next stage of growth with clarity and discipline.
Participants will gain:
- Stronger leadership skills for scaling businesses
- Clear and actionable growth strategies
- Deeper understanding of customers and market opportunities
- Improved governance and financial discipline
- Readiness to raise capital and manage growth effectively
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Cascador ScaleUp Program 2026, applicants must:
- Be a founder or co-founder of a business
- Have at least 2 years of operations
- Generate at least $70,000 (or ₦100 million) in annual revenue
- Be based in Nigeria or another Sub-Saharan African country
- Demonstrate proven traction and market fit
- Be ready to scale and absorb growth capital responsibly
- Commit fully to the 12-week programme
Program Timeline
- Pre-Programme Preparation (Remote): August 17 – 28, 2026
- In-Person Kick-Off (Lagos): August 31 – September 3, 2026
- Site Visits: Week of September 7, 2026
- Weekly Virtual Sessions: September 14 – October 31, 2026
- Final Intensive and Pitch Day (Lagos): November 2 – 6, 2026
Application Process
- Applications close on June 15, 2026 (5 PM WAT)
- Applicants start with a preliminary application
- Semi-finalists will be invited to submit a full application by June 29, 2026
- Finalists will be interviewed in July
- Successful applicants will be notified by August 1, 2026
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and early applicants may receive faster feedback and additional opportunities, including possible invitations to Pitch Day events.
How to Apply
Interested founders should apply through the official application portal before the deadline.
Visit the application page to learn more and submit your application.
Early application is strongly encouraged to maximise your chances and gain access to additional opportunities within the selection process.
