Applications are now open for the 2026 FSDH Female Founders Growth Programme, a structured investment readiness programme created to help ambitious women-led businesses prepare for growth and funding opportunities.
The programme is powered by FSDH Merchant Bank, Africa Guarantee Fund, and WEAV Capital, with a focus on helping female entrepreneurs strengthen their businesses, improve investor readiness, and position themselves for access to capital.
For many startups and growing businesses, raising funds remains one of the biggest challenges. This programme aims to bridge that gap by providing practical support, mentorship, financial readiness training, and access to funding networks.
About the FSDH Female Founders Growth Programme
The Female Founders Growth Programme is designed specifically for women-led businesses that have moved beyond the early-stage phase and are seeking opportunities to scale.
Rather than focusing only on training, the programme combines:
- Investment readiness support
- Business growth strategies
- Financial structuring guidance
- Investor engagement opportunities
- Funding access pathways
At the end of the programme, selected businesses will participate in a Demo Day, where founders pitch directly to investors and financial institutions.
Who Should Apply?
The programme targets women-led businesses with growth potential that are ready for expansion and funding.
Businesses interested in applying should meet the following requirements:
1. Existing revenue-generating business
2. Businesses must be at least 2 years old
3. Businesses must either be 50% or more female-owned or have a woman occupying a major leadership position such as:
- CEO
- COO
- CTO
4. Applicants should demonstrate the ability and readiness to scale.
5. Businesses should be seeking debt financing or equity investment
6. Participants must be willing to commit to:
- Full programme participation
- Physical sessions where required
7. Businesses must operate as technology companies or technology-enabled businesses
What Participants Will Learn
One of the major focuses of the programme is helping businesses become investment-ready.
Participants will receive support in areas such as:
- Business Structure Improvement
- Financial Readiness
- Debt and Equity Preparation
- Investor Materials Development
- Sustainable Growth Planning
- Investor Visibility
Benefits of the FSDH Female Founders Growth Programme
Beyond training, the programme provides direct access to funding opportunities and strategic support.
Participants will benefit from:
- Practical Investment Readiness Training
- Exposure to Investors and Financial Institutions
- Guidance from Industry Experts
- Stronger Financial and Operational Structures
- Improved Investor Positioning
- Access to Funding Opportunities
Potential Funding Opportunities
Selected businesses may qualify for:
1. Debt financing opportunity up to $1,000,000
Through:
FSDH Merchant Bank
2. Equity investment opportunity up to $750,000
Through:
WEAV Capital
Combined, businesses could access opportunities worth:
Up to $1.75 Million
Application Deadline
11:59 P.M WAT; 11th June, 2026
Interested businesses are encouraged to apply early.
SEE ALSO:
- Flourish Her Africa Tech-Driven Conference 2026 Pitch Programme
- WAWU Africa opens portal for Nigerian entrepreneurs to apply for N250,000 startup grant
How to Apply for FSDH Female Founders Growth Programme 2026
Interested founders should complete their applications online.
Step 1: Confirm your business meets all eligibility requirements.
Step 2: Prepare business information and relevant company details.
Step 3: Visit the FSDH Female Founders Growth Programme 2026 official application portal
Step 4: Complete and submit the application before the deadline.
You can also visit the Dailylight Channel Grant for SMEs page and Job and Career Opportunities Desk to explore more opportunities you’re qualified to apply for.
