Her Startup Cohort 2.0 2026: Up to $5,000 Funding for Nigerian Women Tech Founders

If you're a Nigerian woman building a tech-enabled business, this one deserves your attention. Her Startup has opened applications for Cohort 2.0, and the deadline is close.

What Is Her Startup?

Her Startup is an accelerator for women-led technology startups in Africa. It is run by KSH Foundation, EHA Impact Ventures and Tomorrow Foundation.

The pilot cohort in 2024/2025 drew more than 200 applications from 18 African countries. Ten founders from Nigeria, Kenya and Tanzania were selected for training.

What Do Selected Founders Get?

•12 weeks of Founder Institute training, with fees covered by Her Startup

•A monthly training stipend

•A chance to pitch to the Investment Committee for startup capital of up to US$5,000

•6 months of mentoring

Note that the capital is revenue-based financing, not a free grant. Repayments are tied to your revenue. Completing the training does not guarantee funding.

Who Is It For? (Eligibility)

You can apply if you are:

•A woman founder, co-founder or CEO

•Aged 18–35

•Running a tech-focused business

•At least 6 months in operation

•Earning at least $500 in monthly revenue

Are Nigerians eligible? Yes. The programme is open to women founders anywhere in Africa, and the KSH Foundation founder has said he expects strong impact in Nigeria. Only one person per startup can take part, and there is no application fee.

Time commitment: Her Startup's FAQ advises planning for at least 20 hours a week during the programme.

Application Deadline

Applications close on October 26, 2026. That is one week away, so don't wait for the last day.

How to Apply

Apply on the official website: her-startup.com

Some listings point to an application portal at apply.her-startup.com, so use the "Apply Now" button on the official site to land on the right form.

Tips for a Stronger Application

•Have proof of revenue ready, because the $500 monthly threshold over 6 months is a core requirement.

•Show clearly how technology is central to your business.

•Explain your growth plan and what the capital would be used for.

•Submit early to avoid last-minute website problems.

Final Thoughts

Training, a stipend, mentoring and a shot at seed capital don't come together often for women founders. If you qualify, apply. If you know someone who does, share this post with her.

Don't Miss the Next Opportunity

New grants, fellowships and funding calls for Nigerians appear every week, and deadlines pass quickly. Bookmark this blog, check back every week, and share this post with a woman founder who needs it. Leave a comment if you plan to apply, and we'll cheer you on.