The Nigerian agritech sector just got a major boost as First City Monument Bank (FCMB), in partnership with the Dutch Entrepreneurial Development Bank (FMO), has unveiled the ₦20 million AgriTech Investment Readiness Programme 2025.
This initiative is designed to empower agritech startups and SMEs across Nigeria by preparing them for investment opportunities, helping them scale their businesses, and strengthening the nation’s agricultural value chain.
What the Programme Offers
- ₦20 Million Grant: Up to ₦20 million in funding will be awarded to winning startups that demonstrate innovation, scalability, and investment readiness.
- 6-Week Bootcamp: The top 20 shortlisted startups will undergo a structured six-week intensive bootcamp where they’ll receive mentorship, capacity building, and investment readiness support.
- Investor Pitch Day: The programme will conclude with a high-profile pitch event where startups will showcase their solutions to a panel of local and international investors.
- Fundability Scoring: With the support of Heave Ventures and the Zimara platform, startups will be evaluated using alternative data to benchmark growth potential and investor readiness.
Why This Matters
Agriculture remains the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, employing millions of people while contributing significantly to GDP. However, agritech startups often face barriers in accessing investment and scaling their innovations.
The FCMB–FMO AgriTech Programme directly addresses these challenges by:
- Connecting startups with investors and markets.
- Providing tools for sustainable business growth.
- Supporting food security and export opportunities.
- Driving inclusive economic development through agriculture.
Application Details
- Application Window: August 8 – September 12, 2025
- Eligibility: Nigerian agritech startups and SMEs with scalable solutions.
- Selection: 20 startups will be chosen for the bootcamp and final pitch.
- Outcome: Winners secure grant funding and investor connections.
Applications are now open via the FCMB official portal
