Nigeria’s Premier Entrepreneurial Growth Program Returns for Its Most Impactful Year Yet
Entrepreneurs in Nigeria looking to scale their businesses while making a lasting impact now have an unparalleled opportunity. Cascador, the nation’s top accelerator for mid-stage founders, is officially accepting applications for its 2025 cohort—promising a more ambitious, resource-packed program than ever before.
Since its inception in 2019, Cascador has been a game-changer, equipping entrepreneurs with the tools, mentorship, and funding they need to turn vision into reality. With a track record of helping alumni secure over $55 million in funding, this program is designed for business leaders ready to accelerate growth while driving meaningful social change.
Why Cascador 2025 Stands Out
This year’s program offers an expanded curriculum, stronger financial backing, and an enhanced post-program support system. With a laser focus on scaling Nigerian businesses sustainably, the 2025 edition introduces:
A transformative three-month development journey
$5,000 professional development stipend for selected participants
Expert mentorship from top Nigerian and American entrepreneurs
Exclusive access to a thriving alumni network
The opportunity to apply for funding from the $2M Cascador Catalytic Fund
$50,000 in program prizes up for grabs
Dave DeLucia, Cascador’s founder, encapsulates the program’s mission: “We’re not just helping businesses grow; we’re shaping the future of Africa’s economy. The entrepreneurs in our network are tackling Nigeria’s biggest challenges with innovative, scalable solutions.”
What to Expect in the 2025 Program
Cascador’s rigorous structure blends immersive learning with real-world application.
📌 3-Day Kickoff Intensive | September 7-11
📌 6 Weeks of Virtual Learning & Business Advisory
📌 1-Week Residency at Lagos Business School | November 2-7
📌 6 Months of Post-Program Mentorship & Support
One of the biggest highlights is the launch of the $2M Cascador Catalytic Fund, in partnership with Sterling Bank. Set to roll out in May 2025, this fund is designed exclusively for Cascador alumni, offering tailored financial instruments, including debt, equity, and guarantees, to help businesses expand with confidence.
Cascador alumni consistently credit the program as a pivotal moment in their entrepreneurial journeys.
Godwin Benson, CEO of Tuteria and 2024 Pitch Competition Winner, shares his experience:
“Before Cascador, I felt stuck in my business growth. The program gave me clarity, connected me with the right mentors, and helped me unlock opportunities I never considered. It truly changed my life.”
Amanda Etuk, Cascador Program Director and former participant, highlights what makes the program unique: “We focus on both the business and the entrepreneur. Scaling a company is one thing, but becoming a leader who drives lasting impact is what sets Cascador alumni apart.”
Who Should Apply?
Cascador is designed for mid-stage Nigerian entrepreneurs who are actively scaling their businesses. To qualify, applicants must:
✅ Have at least 2 years of operational experience
✅ Generate annual revenue exceeding N50M
✅ Demonstrate a commitment to social impact
✅ Be based in Nigeria
With only 10 spots available, the program ensures highly personalized coaching and support for each selected entrepreneur.
Important Dates & How to Apply
📅 Applications Open: April 1, 2025
📅 Deadline: June 1, 2025
📅 Cohort Announcement: July 15, 2025
Chioma Ifeanyi-Eze, CEO of AccountingHub and 2024 Impact Award Winner, urges entrepreneurs to seize the opportunity: “There’s no other program in Africa that blends leadership development with real, scalable business growth. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
🔹 Apply Now at www.cascador.org before the June 1st deadline.
🔹 Check out alumni testimonials on Cascador’s YouTube channel.
About Cascador
Cascador is a leading accelerator program dedicated to empowering mission-driven Nigerian entrepreneurs. Through a unique blend of mentorship, education, and financial support, Cascador helps founders scale their businesses while making a lasting social impact. Since 2019, its alumni have collectively secured over $55M in capital and are actively shaping Nigeria’s economic landscape.