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South East Development Commission Completes First Phase of Venture Capital Programme

The South East Development Commission has made significant strides in fostering entrepreneurship in Nigeria’s South-East region.

The commission announced the completion of the first phase of the South-East Venture Capital Programme, SEVCP, with 1,200 applications received. Out of these, 128 candidates qualified for the Incubator Track, while 82 startups advanced under the Accelerator Track.

Successful Launch of South-East Venture Capital Programme

The South East Development Commission has successfully completed the first phase of its South-East Venture Capital Programme. This initiative aims to identify and scale technology-driven businesses in the region. The commission received a competitive pool of 1,200 applications, showcasing a vibrant entrepreneurial spirit.

Among the applicants, 128 candidates qualified for the Incubator Track, while 82 startups progressed to the Accelerator Track. This reflects a strong mix of early-stage and growth-ready ventures, indicating a shift towards innovation-led enterprise in the South-East.

Nurturing Entrepreneurship in the South-East Region

The commission emphasized that the quality and volume of applications highlight a growing culture of entrepreneurship. This initiative is crucial for promoting sustainable economic growth in the region. The next phase includes a video pitch assessment, leading to a grand finale on May 25, 2026.

During the finale, top startups will present their ideas to investors and key stakeholders, further enhancing their visibility and potential for funding.

Upcoming Events in the SEVCP

  • Video pitch assessment stage to take place soon.
  • Grand finale scheduled for May 25, 2026.
  • Investment ceremony next month for selected ventures.

The South-East Venture Capital Programme is paving the way for a new era of entrepreneurship in Nigeria.

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