Female Founders Growth Programme 2026: A Pathway to Capital

The landscape for women entrepreneurs is shifting, with more initiatives emerging to support their growth and access to funding. One such opportunity is the Female Founders Growth Programme 2026, designed to help ambitious Nigerian women-led businesses prepare for investment. This program offers a structured approach to securing the capital needed to scale and thrive.

What is the Female Founders Growth Programme?

The Female Founders Growth Programme 2026 is a specialized initiative focused on investment readiness for women entrepreneurs in Nigeria. It provides a clear path for businesses to gain the necessary tools, strategic advice, and support to attract capital. The program is a collaboration between FSDH Merchant Bank, Africa Guarantee Fund, and WEAV Capital, all working together to empower female founders.

Key Benefits for Participants

Businesses that qualify for the Female Founders Growth Programme can expect a range of advantages. These benefits are designed to strengthen their operational and financial standing, making them more attractive to investors. Participants will receive practical training in investment readiness, helping them understand what investors look for. They will also gain valuable exposure to a network of investors and financial institutions.

Industry experts will offer guidance, and participants will work on improving their financial and operational structures. This leads to a stronger position for securing both debt and equity financing. The program aims to help businesses improve their overall investor and lender positioning.

Financial Opportunities Available

A significant aspect of the program is the potential access to substantial funding. Qualifying participants may be able to access up to $2 million in combined debt and equity financing. This includes the possibility of securing up to $750,000 in equity investment directly from WEAV Capital. Additionally, FSDH Merchant Bank can provide debt financing ranging from $200,000 to $1,000,000. This dual approach to funding can provide a robust financial foundation for business expansion.

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for the Female Founders Growth Programme, businesses must meet specific criteria. The company must already be operational with existing revenue and have been in business for at least two years. A key requirement is that the business must be at least 50% female-owned or have a female founder in a C-suite position (CEO, COO, or CTO).

The business should also demonstrate clear potential for growth and be actively seeking debt or equity capital. Participants must be willing to commit to the entire duration of the program, including any required in-person sessions. Furthermore, the business must operate within the technology sector or be a technology-enabled enterprise.

How to Apply

The application process is straightforward for eligible businesses. If you are leading a female-founded tech or tech-enabled business and are ready for the next stage of growth, this program is designed for you. It offers a structured way to become investment-ready and position your company for significant capital opportunities. Interested applicants can find the application link on the FSDH Merchant Bank website. The deadline for applications is June 11, 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main goal of the Female Founders Growth Programme 2026?

The program aims to help women entrepreneurs in Nigeria become investment-ready and secure capital to grow their businesses.

Who is organizing the Female Founders Growth Programme?

It’s a collaboration between FSDH Merchant Bank, Africa Guarantee Fund, and WEAV Capital.

What kind of funding can businesses get from this program?

Businesses can potentially access up to $2 million in debt and equity financing, including up to $750,000 in equity from WEAV Capital and $200,000 to $1,000,000 in debt from FSDH Merchant Bank.

What are the basic requirements to apply for the program?

You need a business that’s at least two years old with revenue, at least 50% female-owned or with a female C-suite leader, and operates in the technology sector.