iDICE

iDICE is an initiative of the Federal Government of Nigeria, executed by the Bank of Industry,  to promote investment in technology and creative ecosystems in the country.

As part of the Government’s effort to create more sustainable jobs in these industries, iDICE is set up to build capacity and upskill Nigerian youth (from ages 15-35), in technology and creativity to increase their employability, foster innovation, and support the emergence of more entrepreneurs. iDICE is co-funded by the African Development Bank (AFDB), Agence française de développement (AFD), Islamic Development Bank (IsDB),and other private investors.

iDICE seeks to do the following:

• Train and certify 175,000 youth in basic, intermediate and advanced ICT skills.
• Increase the capacity of at least 75 Enterprise Support Organizations, while providing coaching/mentorship support to small businesses.
• Create over 800,000 direct and indirect jobs in the country
• Raise additional financing for early stage technology enabled businesses and Creative ventures.
• Upscale national data centres and sandbox infrastructure
• Create an enabling regulatory framework
• Provide access to fund

iDICE is also particular about bridging the gender gaps that exist in access to STEM education, entrepreneurship, and access to venture capital. By the end of this 5-year programme, iDICE would have invested in over 80,000 women in skills, mentorship and startup funding.