ProvidusUnity Bank has partnered with US-based venture capital firm and accelerator gener8tor to launch Nigeria Lightning Rounds, a programme designed to improve access to funding for Nigerian startups by connecting founders directly with local and international investors.
The initiative, scheduled for July 15, will bring together selected startups and investors for a series of curated 15-minute virtual meetings aimed at accelerating early-stage fundraising and expanding investment opportunities for Nigerian businesses.
The programme comes as startups continue to face a more challenging fundraising environment, with venture capital investment slowing globally and African founders increasingly seeking alternative funding channels.
According to the organisers, participating startups will engage in one-on-one investment conversations with investors who have indicated interest in backing Nigerian businesses, providing founders with an opportunity to pitch directly to potential financiers.
Ernest Elue, head of business development at ProvidusUnity Bank, said access to capital remains one of the biggest obstacles facing entrepreneurs in Nigeria.
