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The Osun State Government has called on young entrepreneurs and technology enthusiasts to apply for the iDICE Startup Bridge: Founders Lab, as part of efforts to position the state as a leading hub for digital innovation in West Africa.
The State Ministry of Innovation, Science, Technology and Digital Economy made the call ahead of the April 20, 2026 deadline, describing the initiative as a strategic pathway for nurturing tech-driven enterprises and accelerating economic growth.
The programme is a component of the Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) initiative, supported by global development partners such as the African Development Bank (AfDB), Agence Française de Développement (AFD), the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), and the Bank of Industry (BOI).
According to the Ministry, the Founders Lab is designed to transform early-stage ideas into scalable ventures through access to seed funding opportunities, expert mentorship, hands-on training, and exposure to global innovation ecosystems.
The initiative aligns with the administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke’s digital transformation agenda, which seeks to reposition Osun State from a traditionally driven economy to a competitive, technology-oriented landscape.
The government noted that the programme targets Nigerians between the ages of 18 and 35 who possess either innovative tech ideas or existing prototypes capable of scaling into viable businesses.
It added that beyond supporting individual entrepreneurs, the initiative aims to build a sustainable innovation ecosystem that will drive job creation, promote economic inclusion, and empower a new generation of digital leaders within the state.
To facilitate seamless participation, the Ministry has established a dedicated Osun Helpdesk to provide guidance and support to applicants throughout the registration process.
Interested candidates are advised to submit their applications via the official portal, www.idicestartupbridge.ng, before the stated deadline.
The Ministry described the programme as a rare opportunity for aspiring innovators in Osun State to build globally competitive solutions while operating from a local base.
For further enquiries, applicants may contact the Helpdesk via phone on 293, WhatsApp on +234 903 981 7110, or email at startupbridge@osunstate.gov.ng.
