The Bet9ja Foundation has announced that applications for its ScaleUp Business Accelerator 2.0 Programme will open on April 1, 2026, offering funding and mentorship opportunities to early-stage Nigerian businesses. The foundation disclosed that the programme, designed to support high-potential startups and SMEs, will provide selected businesses with up to ₦3 million in non-dilutive grant funding. Participants will also compete in a pitch challenge, where the overall winner will receive an additional ₦5 million grant. According to the Foundation, the initiative is aimed at equipping Nigerian entrepreneurs with the tools needed to scale sustainably through structured training, mentorship, and access to markets and investors. A total of 10 startups will be selected per cohort, with over ₦40 million expected to be disbursed to founders across the programme. The foundation explained that eligible businesses must be registered in Nigeria, have operated for at least six months, and show evidence of revenue or market traction. Applicants must also demonstrate strong potential for scalability beyond their current markets. In addition, founders applying for the programme must be Nigerian citizens or legal residents between the ages of 22 and 40, and must be actively involved in running their businesses. Selected participants will be required to commit fully to the 10-week accelerator programme. The application process, which will run until April 30, 2026, requires applicants to submit business registration documents, a business plan, and financial records through an online portal. The accelerator will be conducted primarily virtually, with some optional in-person sessions in Lagos, while the final Demo Night will require physical attendance. Speaking on the impact of the programme, the foundation noted that previous participants have benefited from mentorship, funding, and access to a growing network of investors and partners. Interested applicants are encouraged to review eligibility requirements and prepare necessary documents ahead of the application opening date. Applications can be accessed via APPLY HERE