In a groundbreaking move to accelerate Africa’s entrepreneurial growth, Cascador has partnered with Sterling Bank to launch a $2 million Catalytic Fund aimed at supporting mid-stage businesses. This new funding model offers low-interest, flexible debt financing to Cascador alumni, combining access to capital with mentorship, tailored repayment plans, and minimal collateral requirements.
The fund, announced as part of a bold strategy to unlock scalable impact, targets ventures in vital sectors including healthcare, logistics, education, manufacturing, agri-business, and financial inclusion. Sterling Bank will manage the fund and provide a range of financial instruments—such as equipment loans and revenue-based financing—designed specifically for the realities faced by Nigerian SMEs.
Cascador’s founder described the initiative as a “breakthrough moment” that blends education with access to real-world capital, while Sterling Bank’s CEO emphasized the importance of funding models built around the everyday challenges of African entrepreneurs. Unlike conventional lending, this model prioritizes trust, business performance, and long-term viability. It includes custom repayment schedules, reduced lending risk through a first-loss guarantee from Cascador, and technical guidance from top advisors.
Applications for the Catalytic Fund opened on February 14 and will conclude with a high-profile Pitch Day on May 14, 2025. Selected finalists will pitch to a panel of investors, business leaders, and faculty advisors, with both debt and equity financing awarded based on impact, viability, and growth potential. Notably, the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority and the Development Bank of Nigeria will also back the initiative, offering innovation prizes during the final event.
Since 2019, Cascador has helped over 60 entrepreneurs raise more than \$55 million, creating thousands of jobs across Africa. The launch of the Catalytic Fund marks a major step in Cascador’s mission to build a sustainable entrepreneurial ecosystem on the continent.
Entrepreneurs are encouraged to apply for Cascador’s 2025 accelerator cohort to become eligible for this new wave of catalytic funding.
