Growth-stage founders across Africa now have a fresh shot at scaling their ventures, as applications open for the 2026 Cascador ScaleUp Programme, with a June 15 submission deadline.
- Growth-stage founders across Africa now have a fresh shot at scaling their ventures, as applications open for the 2026 Cascador...
- The 12-week programme targets entrepreneurs who have already built traction and are ready to expand with stronger leadership, refined strategy,...
- It is tailored for entrepreneurs with proven market fit, stable operations, and the capacity to deploy growth capital responsibly.
- The selection focuses on companies that are already at a scaling stage and seeking structured support to accelerate growth.
Keep reading for the full breakdown on African founders — everything you need to know is covered below.
The 12-week programme targets entrepreneurs who have already built traction and are ready to expand with stronger leadership, refined strategy, and access to capital.
It combines in-person sessions, virtual learning, and expert mentorship to prepare founders to raise between $2 million and $5 million annually from the Cascador Catalytic Fund.
Built for founders ready to scale
Cascador says the programme is designed for founders who have moved beyond early-stage uncertainty and are now focused on structured growth. It is tailored for entrepreneurs with proven market fit, stable operations, and the capacity to deploy growth capital responsibly.
Participants should be ready to strengthen governance, sharpen financial discipline, and build competitive advantage as their companies expand. The programme also emphasises leadership development, helping founders grow alongside their businesses.
Who can apply
Eligibility is limited to founders or co-founders of businesses that have been operating for at least two years and generate annual revenue of $70,000 or its naira equivalent of ₦100 million or more.
Applicants must be based in Nigeria or elsewhere in Sub-Saharan Africa and commit fully to the programme’s schedule. The selection focuses on companies that are already at a scaling stage and seeking structured support to accelerate growth.
What participants will gain
The programme offers a mix of practical support and financial incentives to strengthen both founders and their ventures.
Selected participants will take part in a 12-week experience combining virtual sessions with in-person intensives. Travel, accommodation, and meals for physical sessions are fully covered.
Each founder will also receive a $5,000 stipend for personal development, while standout participants on Pitch Day will compete for a share of $50,000 in prizes. In addition, participants become eligible to apply for funding from the Cascador Catalytic Fund.
Programme timeline
Activities begin with a remote pre-programme phase scheduled for August 17 to 28. This is followed by an in-person kick-off event in Lagos from August 31 to September 3.
Participants will then embark on site visits during the week of September 7 before transitioning into weekly virtual learning sessions running from September 14 to October 31.
The programme will conclude with an in-person intensive and Pitch Day in Lagos from November 2 to 6, where founders will showcase their businesses to investors and industry leaders.