Cascador ScaleUp Program 2026 for African Founders

About

A 12-week accelerator program designed for growth-stage founders, offering structured learning, mentorship, and funding opportunities to help businesses scale effectively. Participants will engage in both in-person and virtual sessions, gaining access to valuable resources and a chance to win significant pitch prizes.

Benefits

• 💼Structured Learning Experience
  A 12-week structured learning and leadership experience
• 🤝One-on-One Mentorship
  One-on-one mentorship from investors and experienced entrepreneurs
• 💵Personal Development Stipend
  A $5,000 stipend for personal development
• ✈️ Travel and Accommodation
  Fully covered travel, accommodation, and meals for in-person sessions
• 🌐Networking Opportunities
  Access to a strong network of peers and strategic partners
• 💰Pitch Prize
  Opportunity to pitch at Demo Day and win up to $50,000 in prizes

Eligibility Criteria

• Be a founder or co-founder of a business
• Have at least 2 years of operations
• Generate at least $70,000 (or ₦100 million) in annual revenue
• Be based in Nigeria or another Sub-Saharan African country
• Demonstrate proven traction and market fit
• Be ready to scale and absorb growth capital responsibly
• Commit fully to the 12-week programme

Participation Commitments

• Commit fully to the 12-week programme
• Attend in-person sessions for the programme kickoff and pitch day
• Engage in virtual sessions for the remaining 10 weeks

Target Sector

All sectors

Target Location

Sub-Saharan Africa