ProvidusUnity Bank, in partnership with United States based global venture capital firm and accelerator, gener8tor, has launched the Nigeria Lightning Rounds, a new initiative aimed at expanding funding opportunities for Nigerian startups and small and medium sized enterprises by connecting founders with local and international investors.
The programme, scheduled for July 15, 2026, will provide selected entrepreneurs with direct access to investors through structured one on one virtual investment meetings. During the 15 minute sessions, founders will present their business ideas to investors who have indicated interest in supporting innovative Nigerian businesses. The initiative will focus on high growth sectors, including fintech, healthtech, manufacturing, sustainability and artificial intelligence, while remaining open to entrepreneurs from all industries.
Speaking on the partnership, the Head of Business Development at ProvidusUnity Bank, Mr Ernest Elue, said the initiative was designed to address one of the biggest challenges facing entrepreneurs, access to funding. He explained that the collaboration with gener8tor would create a platform that connects promising founders with investors capable of supporting business growth, while reinforcing the bank’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s entrepreneurial ecosystem through innovation and expanded access to opportunities. Similarly, the Director of Lightning Rounds at gener8tor, Ms Elizabeth Larios, said the partnership reflects the firm’s commitment to promoting equitable investment ecosystems and directing capital to promising and underserved entrepreneurs.
According to the organisers, Nigeria Lightning Rounds builds on gener8tor’s globally recognised investment platform, which has facilitated thousands of investor startup engagements worldwide. The 2025 edition for Nigerian founders featured 18 investors and resulted in 50 investment meetings. Interested startups and investors have been encouraged to apply to participate in the 2026 edition, which is expected to further strengthen access to capital for innovative businesses across Nigeria.