Startups

Antler Selects 24 Founders to Join Inaugural Nigerian Accelerator Cohort

Martha Odutola3 months Ago2 Mins read73

Written by Martha Odutola

When Anil Atmaramani stepped into his role as Antler’s new partner for Africa in 2024, he made it clear that he wanted to place bold bets on founders who embody discipline, resilience, and strong execution. Less than a year later, that vision has taken shape with the launch of Antler’s first Nigerian accelerator program and the selection of 24 promising founders to kick off the journey.

A Different Kind of Accelerator

Antler is not your typical investment firm. Founded in 2017, the global early-stage investor operates in more than 25 locations worldwide, from London and New York to Singapore and Nairobi. Its approach is simple yet unique: don’t just invest in startups, build them from scratch alongside exceptional individuals.

Rather than scouting only existing companies, Antler brings together talented people who have deep insight into specific problems, often because they’ve lived those challenges themselves and supports them in co-founding high-potential ventures.

Why Nigeria, Why Now?

Nigeria’s startup scene has exploded over the past decade, producing unicorns in fintech, logistics, and e-commerce. But the ecosystem is still in need of platforms that combine funding, global networks, and hands-on venture building. With its track record of creating and scaling startups globally, Antler’s arrival in Nigeria signals growing confidence in the country’s ability to produce globally relevant innovation.

“Africa has some of the most resilient and resourceful entrepreneurs in the world. By helping them build from day zero, we’re unlocking potential that can create real impact,not just on the continent, but globally,” said Anil Atmaramani.

Inside the 8-Week Sprint

The selected 24 founders will participate in an intensive in-person 8-week sprint in Lagos. The program is designed to equip them with the tools, frameworks, and networks to turn ideas into viable businesses.

Phase 1: Team formation and idea validation

Phase 2: Market research, business model design, and MVP development

Phase 3: Pitch preparation and investor engagement

By the end of the sprint, founders will have the opportunity to pitch to Antler’s investment committee for potential pre-seed funding.

Setting the Stage for Impact

Antler’s bet on Nigeria is more than just market expansion, it’s a long-term play to nurture a generation of problem-solvers whose solutions are rooted in real market needs. For participants, it’s a chance to access not just capital, but also mentorship from seasoned operators, global exposure, and a lifelong founder network.

As the program kicks off, all eyes will be on the solutions these 24 innovators create and how they might shape the future of industries both within and beyond Africa.