Search
MSME Africa
MSME Africa
NewsSEDC Launches $50m Venture Capital Programme to Boost Startups, Expand SME Funding in South EastPublished 3 days ago on March 25, 2026By Blessing Joseph
ShareTweet
FacebookTwitterEmailWhatsAppCopy LinkLinkedInShare
The South East Development Commission has launched the South East Venture Capital Program (SEVCP) to improve access to funding for startups and strengthen the region’s innovation and SME ecosystem. AgriTech startup incubation
According to Stanley Ohajuruka, the programme aligns with the federal government’s Renewed Hope Agenda and is designed to attract sustained investment into high-growth sectors across South East Nigeria.
At the core of the initiative is a $50 million venture capital fund, structured as a blended finance vehicle to mobilise public, private, diaspora, and institutional investments. The fund will be managed through the South East Investment Company to ensure transparency and alignment with global standards.
As part of its rollout, the programme has opened applications for the South East Pitch Competition, which will serve as the entry point for startups into the investment pipeline. A total of 30 startups will be selected, with 20 placed in an Accelerator Track and 10 in an Incubation Track. Nigerian youth grants
Selected startups will receive a combined $450,000 in funding, alongside participation in a structured incubation and acceleration programme designed to support product development, market expansion, and scalability.
