Add us on Google
Applications are now open for Cohort 9 of the Shecluded Dream to Business Incubator Programme, a structured incubation initiative designed to support women and young entrepreneurs in Nigeria with the tools needed to transform business ideas into sustainable ventures.
The programme is aimed at helping participants validate their ideas, strengthen their business models, access mentorship, and connect with funding opportunities that can support long-term growth. As part of this cohort, selected participants will also have the opportunity to compete for grant funding of up to ₦1 million.
Shecluded, known for supporting women-led businesses and inclusive entrepreneurship in Nigeria, continues to expand access to business development opportunities through this incubation programme, which is focused on enterprise growth, job creation, and financial inclusion.
Programme Overview
The Dream to Business Incubator Programme is designed for early-stage entrepreneurs and aspiring founders who are seeking structured support to launch or grow their businesses.
Through a four-week virtual incubation process, participants will gain practical knowledge, mentorship, and strategic guidance needed to move from idea stage to execution.
The programme is particularly valuable for entrepreneurs who need help refining business concepts, understanding market opportunities, and preparing for investment or grant opportunities.
Programme Highlights
Selected participants will benefit from:
Four Weeks Virtual Training
Participants will undergo intensive online training sessions covering essential business topics such as entrepreneurship development, planning, market positioning, and growth strategy.
Business Idea Validation Guide and Mentorship
The programme offers structured mentorship to help applicants test, refine, and validate their business ideas for market relevance and sustainability.
Business Development Support Services
Participants will receive professional support to improve business structure, operational planning, and enterprise readiness.
Pitching Competition with Grant Awards
One of the major highlights of the programme is the pitching competition, where outstanding participants will have the chance to win grants of up to ₦1 million.
Certificate of Completion
Successful participants will receive certificates recognising their participation and completion of the incubation programme.
Grant Application Guidance
Entrepreneurs will also receive guidance on how to prepare compelling grant applications for future funding opportunities.
Access to Debt Funding Opportunities
The programme connects participants to financing pathways, including debt funding opportunities that may help support business expansion.
Who Can Apply?
The programme is open to:
- Women entrepreneurs across Nigeria
- Young Nigerians with promising business ideas
- Early-stage founders seeking business support
- Entrepreneurs committed to building sustainable enterprises
Applicants should be ready to participate fully in the four-week virtual programme and take advantage of all learning and mentorship opportunities provided.
Why This Opportunity Matters
Many Nigerian entrepreneurs face significant barriers in accessing startup support, including lack of mentorship, poor funding access, and limited business development resources. The Shecluded Dream to Business Incubator Programme seeks to bridge this gap by combining training, mentorship, and funding access into one structured platform.
For women and youth-led businesses especially, this initiative presents a strong opportunity to gain practical support and increase their chances of building scalable businesses.
Application Process
Interested applicants are required to complete the official online application form.
Applicants are advised to provide complete and accurate information during submission, as only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
How to Apply
Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted after the review process.
Read also: Apply for Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy (LJLA) 2026/2027 Fellowship Programme
