ProvidusUnity Bank, in partnership with US-based global venture firm and accelerator, gener8tor, has announced the launch of Nigeria Lightning Rounds, an initiative designed to expand funding opportunities for Nigerian startups and small businesses by connecting founders with local and international investors.
Supported by ProvidusUnity Bank, the programme aims to bridge the startup funding gap by providing high-potential entrepreneurs with direct access to investors through curated one-on-one investment conversations.
Scheduled to hold on July 15, 2026, Nigeria Lightning Rounds will feature carefully selected startups engaging with targeted investors who have expressed interest in supporting Nigerian innovation.
Participating founders will have the opportunity to pitch their businesses through focused 15-minute virtual sessions facilitated by gener8tor and ProvidusUnity Bank’s networks.
Speaking on the partnership, Ernest Elue, ProvidusUnity Bank’s, head of Business Development, said:
“We recognise that access to capital remains one of the biggest challenges facing entrepreneurs in Nigeria. Through our partnership with gener8tor, we are creating a platform that connects promising Nigerian founders with investors who can provide the support required to scale their businesses.”
He added that
“The partnership reinforces ProvidusUnity Bank’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s entrepreneurial ecosystem by supporting innovation, enabling access to opportunities, and creating pathways for businesses with high-growth potential.”
Lightning Rounds are a signature initiative of gener8tor’s investment platform, which has facilitated thousands of investor-startup meetings globally.
The format is optimized to eliminate friction, reduce bias in early-stage fundraising, and help founders secure capital from investors aligned with their mission and stage. gener8tor’s previous Lightning Rounds for Nigerian Founders in 2025 featured 18 participating Investors and led to 50 investment meetings facilitated.
“gener8tor is thrilled to partner with ProvidusUnity Bank to extend the Lightning Rounds model into Nigeria,” said Elizabeth Larios, Director of Lightning Rounds at gener8tor.
“This collaboration reflects our commitment to building equitable ecosystems and driving capital to the most promising and underrepresented entrepreneurs.”
The program will focus on high-growth sectors including fintech, healthtech, manufacturing, sustainability, and AI, but welcomes SMEs from ALL industries. Founders from across Nigeria are encouraged to apply.
How to apply:
Those interested in applying as a startup or participating as an investor can learn more here.
