About the Programme
The Female Founders Growth Programme is a structured investment readiness programme providing a pathway to real capital for ambitious Nigerian women-led businesses.
Powered by FSDH Merchant Bank, Africa Guarantee Fund, and WEAV Capital, the programme equips participants with the tools, strategic guidance, and investor readiness support needed to strengthen their businesses and position for funding opportunities.
Qualifying participants may access up to $2 million in combined debt and equity financing.
Participants will also gain exposure to a curated network of early-stage investors and strategic ecosystem partners.
At the end of the programme, selected businesses will pitch to investors and financial institutions during the flagship Demo Day.
Application closes: 11 : 59 pm WAT 22nd June 2026.
Why This Programme Matters.
Access to capital remains one of the biggest barriers to growth for many female founders.
This programme is designed to help businesses bridge that gap by equipping participants with the knowledge, tools, and support required to become investment-ready.
Participants will learn how to:
- Strengthen business and financial structures
- Improve debt and equity readiness
- Understand investor and lender expectations
- Build investor-grade materials
- Position their businesses for sustainable growth
- Gain visibility with investors and financial institutions
Programme Highlights
Investment Readiness Training
Expert
Support
In-Person Workshops
Pitch Competition & Demo Day
Who Should Apply?
- Have an existing and viable business with revenue
- Be 2 years old or more
- Either be (a) 50% or more owned by a female founder, OR (b) have a female in the C-suite (CEO or, COO, or CTO)
- Demonstrate growth potential
- Be seeking debt or equity capital
- Be willing to commit to the full duration of the programme, including physical sessions
- Operate as a technology company or technology-enabled business
What Participants Stand to Gain
Participants will benefit from:
- Practical investment readiness training
- Exposure to investors and financial institutions
- Guidance from industry experts
- Improved financial and operational structure
- Stronger investor and lender positioning
- Potential access to debt financing.
- Opportunity to secure equity investment of up to $500,000 from WEAV Capital
Ready to Scale Your Business?
If you are building a female-led tech or tech-enabled business and preparing for the next phase of growth, this programme is for you.
Take the next step toward becoming investment-ready and positioning your business for meaningful capital opportunities.