The programme is designed for founders who are already operating a business, rather than people with an idea alone.
To be eligible for Her Startup Cohort 2.0, applicants must meet the following requirements:
The programme is open to eligible women founders across Africa, including entrepreneurs in Nigeria and other African markets. English and French are accepted on the application form.
Her Startup focuses on technology-enabled companies operating in emerging industries and with the potential to grow.
Eligible businesses may include technology-enabled solutions in healthcare, financial services, education, agriculture, digital services and other sectors.
However, having a business idea is not enough. Applicants should already have a product in the market and evidence of sustained monthly revenue.
The programme also limits the proportion of selected companies that can be in fintech to no more than 20%, while aiming for at least 15% of selected companies to come from Francophone Africa.
What Will Selected Founders Receive?
1. Intensive Business Training
Selected founders will participate in a structured accelerator delivered through the Founder Institute. The training is designed to strengthen business models, customer understanding, growth strategies and investment readiness.
2. Monthly Stipend
Participants receive a stipend during the training period, paid in stages. The programme does not publish a fixed stipend amount on its main website.
3. Opportunity to Pitch for US$5,000
Founders who successfully complete the training become eligible to pitch their business models to the programme’s Investment Committee for startup capital.
The funding is structured as convertible revenue-based financing, rather than an unconditional cash grant. Participation does not automatically guarantee an award.
4. Six Months of Mentorship
Funded founders receive mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs and industry professionals to support business growth and address operational challenges.
5. Networking and Business Support
Participants can gain access to networks, investor-readiness support and opportunities to connect with people who can help their businesses grow. The programme also lists co-working space and healthcare coverage among its support offerings.
Also Apply: Graduate Trainee Program 2026 at Nonsman Global Systems Limited | Apply Now
How to Apply
Interested women founders can apply through the official Her Startup website.
Before applying, ensure that your business meets the age, technology, product and revenue requirements. Be prepared to explain what your company does, the problem it solves, its customers and its growth potential.
Application deadline: October 26, 2026, according to the current opportunity listing.
For enquiries, contact info@her-startup.com.