Applications are open for the Cascador Program 2025 for Mid-stage African Entrepreneurs. Cascador empowers mid-stage African entrepreneurs to scale their mission-driven companies, equipping them with proven business strategies, leadership skills, and exclusive access to the new $2M Catalytic Fund.
They focus on building strong leadership skills, clear value propositions, appropriate funding plans (equity, debt and/or grants), a strong network of local resources and a community of peers. The goal is that you leave the Cascador program as a strong, transformative leader with a strategic plan to scale, and the connections, resources, and capital required to execute your plan.
Benefits
The program consists of:
- In person and virtual experience;
- Individual mentorship following the program to ensure that fellows can apply what they learn in the real world;
- $5,000 USD stipend for personal development;
- A small number of alumni may eventually qualify for debt or equity funding from affiliated financing organization.
- $50,000 USD in prizes awarded for Impact, Best Pitch and Exemplary Cascador;
- Eligibility to apply for the $2M Catalytic Fund after program completion, with investments decided at the annual Pitch Day.
Eligibility
- Open to mid-stage African entrepreneurs.
- 2+ years in operations.
- ₦50M+ in annual revenue.
- Based in Nigeria.
- All business models are welcome. Impact-driven entrepreneurs are preferred.
Application
Program Dates
- In-person kick-off: September 7-10 at the Radisson Blu, VI in Lagos (lodging & meals provided)
- Virtual education (weekly 2-hour video calls): September 15-October 31
- In-person intensive: November 2-7 at Lagos Business School (lodging & meals provided)
- Catalytic Fund applications open for alumni: February 2026
Deadline: 1 June, 2025
Click here to apply
For more information, visit Cascador Program.
