SheAscends is a women-focused accelerator supporting growth-stage entrepreneurs in Lagos, Nigeria.The program helps female founders unlock financial access, strengthen investment readiness, and scale impact-driven businesses. Through practical mentorship from industry experts and training workshops (virtual and in-person), She Ascends builds the capability women entrepreneurs need to grow.
₦100,000,000 in growth capital, 100 businesses, real support, not empty promises.
Powered by Funke Jones Foundation.
Benefits of Joining
Mentorship from Industry Experts
One-on-one guidance from people who’ve built what you’re building. Practical advice on operations, finance, and growth—tailored to your business.
Training Workshops
Virtual and in-person sessions covering financial management, pricing, operations, and everything else you need to scale with confidence.
Access to Growth Capital
Up to ₦1,000,000 per business for qualified participants. Capital to buy equipment, stock inventory, or invest in what moves your business forward.
A Community of Women Building
Join a cohort of 100 women entrepreneurs. Share challenges, learn together, and build relationships that outlast the program.
Visibility & Storytelling
Featuring selected startups in case studies, media showcases, and Seedstars channels to highlight your journey and impact.
Impact Measurement & Gender-Lens Integration
Training and resources to design inclusive products, integrate gender KPIs, and scale gender-equitable innovation.
Ecosystem Opportunities
Strategic Partnerships, Facilitation of collaborations with development agencies, investors, and corporates committed to advancing women entrepreneurs.
Who Can Join
Business Stage
Early and Growth-stage businesses with proven revenue. You’ve moved past the idea phase, you’re selling, serving customers, and ready to scale.
Revenue
Minimum ₦6,000,000 annual revenue.
Ownership
Women in ownership/leadership, women as core customers, or women-forward employment practices.
Age
30–45 years old.
Location
Lagos, Nigeria (pilot phase).
Sectors
We welcome businesses across industries. Food, retail, fashion, beauty, services, agriculture, and more.
Model
For-profit, tech-enabled (traditional businesses with a strong digital edge are eligible).
How It Works
Apply
Tell us about your business, your revenue, and what growth looks like for you.
Get Selected
We review applications and select 100 businesses for the cohort.
Train & Learn
Join workshops and connect with your mentor. Build the skills and systems your business needs.
Access Capital
Qualified businesses receive growth capital to invest in their next stage.
Grow
Scale your business with new capability, capital, and a network behind you.
Apply Now
Deadline, December 30, 2025
Timeline
Application Period
November 30 – December 30, 2025
Application Review & Screening
January 6 – February 2, 2026
Virtual Training & Mentorship Cohort
February 2026
Grant Awards & Celebration
March 2026