SMEDAN Is Calling Nigerian Startups! Apply for the Start-up Digital Innovation Academy 2026 — Deadline: June 12

 SMEDAN Is Calling Nigerian Startups! Apply for the Start-up Digital Innovation Academy 2026 — Deadline: June 12

Are you running an early-stage startup in Nigeria? Do you have a business with strong growth potential and you're ready to scale? Here is a government-backed opportunity you cannot afford to miss.

The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) has officially opened applications for its Start-up Digital Innovation Academy, hosted at the prestigious Abuja Centre for Entrepreneurship (ACE). This is a full capacity-building programme designed to equip Nigerian entrepreneurs with world-class skills, seed funding access, mentorship, and investor connections — all at no cost to you.

About SMEDAN and the Programme

SMEDAN is Nigeria's federal agency mandated to promote the development of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across the country. As part of its broader mission to strengthen Nigeria's startup and innovation ecosystem, SMEDAN established the Abuja Centre for Entrepreneurship (ACE) — a hub dedicated to nurturing the next generation of Nigerian business leaders.

The Start-up Digital Innovation Academy is one of ACE's flagship programmes, bringing together early-stage and growth-ready founders under one roof for intensive, practical training in entrepreneurship, AI, and digital business scaling.

 Who Should Apply?

This programme is specifically designed for:

Early-stage startups looking to build a solid foundation

Ready-to-scale startups with strong growth potential

Startups with a proven business model

Youth-led or youth-owned ventures — founders preferably between 18 and 35 years

Innovative businesses already leveraging or willing to leverage digital technology, AI, or innovation

If your startup ticks any of these boxes, this is your sign to apply today.

🌍 Eligibility

This programme is open to Nigerian startups across the country. There is no state restriction mentioned — founders from all 36 states and the FCT are encouraged to apply.

💎 What You Will Gain

Selected participants will benefit from:

✅ World-class training in Entrepreneurship, AI, Digital Innovation, and Business Scaling

✅ Expert mentorship and coaching from seasoned industry professionals

✅ Seed Funding for top-performing startups

✅ Access to networks, investors, and industry partners

✅ Incubation and post-programme support to sustain your growth beyond the academy

This is not just a training — it is a full ecosystem of support to help your startup go from idea to impact.

📅 Application Deadline

12th June, 2026

Applications close in a matter of days — do not wait until the last minute. Fill your application immediately and take the first bold step toward scaling your startup.

🔗 How to Apply

Visit the official application link: http://bit.ly/4nEZxmk

You can also follow @smedangov on Instagram for updates and announcements.