Cascador empowers mid-stage African entrepreneurs to scale their mission-driven companies, equipping them with proven business strategies, leadership skills, and exclusive access to our new $2M Catalytic Fund.
We 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 program consists of:
- In person and virtual experience;
- Individual mentorship following the program to ensure our 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 our affiliated financing organization.
- $50,000 USD in prizes awarded for Impact, Best Pitch and Exemplary Cascador;
- Eligibility to apply for our $2M Catalytic Fund after program completion, with investments decided at our annual Pitch Day.
Our 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.
Cascador’s $2M Catalytic Fund: A Path to Growth Capital
Cascador alumni who complete our program become eligible to apply for funding from our $2M annual Catalytic Fund .
Launching in May 2025, this fund provides a tailored mix of debt, equity, guarantees, and collateral investments in partnership with Sterling Bank. Selected alumni will present at our exclusive Pitch Day event, where investment decisions are made.
APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR CASCADOR 2025 ON APRIL 1st
Cascador is offering a professional development stipend of $5,000 USD to each participating entrepreneur accepted into the 2025 cohort.
All business models are welcome. Impact-driven entrepreneurs are preferred.
Criteria to Apply:
- 2+ years in operations
- ₦50M+ in annual revenue
- Based in Nigeria
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
Things to Know:
- Cohort limited to 10 entrepreneurs
- Accepting applications for Cascador 2025 until June 1st.
- Semi-finalists will submit financial documents and due diligence forms in June.
- Finalists will be interviewed.
- Accepted cohort members will be notified by August.
