FCMB HERCCELERATE Program 2024: Empowering Women-led Tech Startups in Nigeria

The First City Monument Bank (FCMB) in Nigeria is now accepting applications for its 2024 HERCCELERATE Program, an initiative aimed at supporting women-led tech startups in Nigeria.

About the FCMB HERCCELERATE Program

The HERCCELERATE Entrepreneurship Program offers up to N1.5 million in grant funding, designed to accelerate the growth of early-stage women-led technology ventures in Nigeria. Through this initiative, participants will gain access to funding, mentorship, and training to boost their startups.

This post outlines key details about the program and explains how eligible female entrepreneurs can apply.

Program Summary

• Host: First City Monument Bank (FCMB)
• Type: Training
• Eligible Nationalities: Nigerians
• Benefits: N1.5 million grant, mentorship, expert-led training
• IELTS Requirement: None
• Application Deadline: October 6, 2024

Details of the HERCCELERATE Program

The FCMB HERCCELERATE Program is a key component of FCMB’s SheVentures initiative, which focuses on empowering women entrepreneurs. In collaboration with FCMB’s innovation hub, Hub One, this accelerator program will provide essential resources for women-led startups in the tech sector.

The program aims to prepare these startups for investment opportunities and growth by offering tailored coaching, financial support, technological tools, and access to a network of investors.

In the first edition, up to 40 women-led tech startups will be selected to participate, with the goal of supporting a total of 200 startups over the next five years.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the HERCCELERATE Program, applicants must:

• Be a Nigerian citizen
• Be a female entrepreneur
• Lead a tech startup with high growth potential in Nigeria
• Demonstrate commitment to business growth and innovation

Benefits of Participating

Participants in the FCMB HERCCELERATE Program will enjoy the following benefits:

• N1.5 million grant for selected startups
• Customized expert-led training sessions
• Discounted access to tech tools and services, including Zoho One and Branddrive
• Networking opportunities with potential investors
• Continued support through follow-up programs

Additional Advantages

Participants also gain access to:

• SheVentures Loans: Single-digit interest and zero-interest loans
• Networking and business opportunities through the SheVentures community
• FCMB’s Open Banking APIs, providing integration with financial infrastructure
• Access to coworking spaces and resources at Hub One

Program Timeline

• Application Window: September 6, 2024 – October 6, 2024
• Participant Selection: October 6, 2024 – October 11, 2024
• Acceleration Program: October 14, 2024 – November 15, 2024 (5 weeks)
• Demo Day: November 29 or 30, 2024

How to Apply for the FCMB HERCCELERATE Program

Interested and eligible female entrepreneurs should apply by following the application process on the official program page. Ensure that all required information is provided to improve your chances of selection.