Firm boosts support for young entrepreneurs with new accelerator program
As part of strategies to expand opportunities for young innovators, CampusLabs has launched a revamped Accelerator Program aimed at empowering university founders and recent graduates from underserved markets globally. The program, supported by Syracuse University’s Orange Innovation Fund and in collaboration with Entrepreneurs for Global Change (EGC), is designed to equip aspiring entrepreneurs with the […]
As part of strategies to expand opportunities for young innovators, CampusLabs has launched a revamped Accelerator Program aimed at empowering university founders and recent graduates from underserved markets globally.
The program, supported by Syracuse University’s Orange Innovation Fund and in collaboration with Entrepreneurs for Global Change (EGC), is designed to equip aspiring entrepreneurs with the tools, mentorship, and resources to turn their ideas into scalable businesses.
Interest in the program has surged, with 92 applications received in just six days — a notable increase from the previous edition’s 73 applicants.
“We are witnessing a tremendous surge in interest. This new format is designed to ensure that no one is left behind, and that brilliant young minds from across Nigeria — and soon from every underserved region — have the opportunity to be part of this program, even if they face geographic or logistical barriers,” said Emeka Ossai, Founder of CampusLabs.
The Accelerator Program features a 3-week virtual curriculum covering entrepreneurial fundamentals, business modeling, marketing strategies, and fundraising. This is followed by a 1-week residency for hands-on learning, pitch preparation, and networking with industry experts. The program concludes with a Demo Day, where participants showcase their startups to investors and ecosystem leaders.
The current cohort includes 28 youth-led ideas from 10 universities across nine cities, underscoring the program’s growing reach.
For many participants, the experience has been life-changing.
“So the experience was the missing piece I never knew was needed to birth my vision,” said Favour Fatuase O., one of the participants. “Learning how to prioritize my customers and users over personal sentiment has been vital to my growth as an entrepreneur.”
Echoing this, Anolue Chibuikem, Founder/CEO of ScholX, said, “Being part of this program feels like we’re building something together, step by step. I’m learning more than I expected, and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes us.”
For participants like Jane Uwagboe, the Accelerator is more than just a startup incubator — it’s a transformative journey.
“The CampusLabs Accelerator Program is more than just a startup incubator. It is a launchpad for ideas, a network of brilliant minds, and a transformative journey that shaped my entrepreneurial mindset,” she said.
The initiative has gained strong support from partners. Filip Sasic, representing Entrepreneurs for Global Change (EGC), highlighted its impact:
“We are partnering with CampusLabs to build young founders in emerging ecosystems, which aligns with our mission.”
Linda Hartsock from Syracuse University’s Orange Innovation Fund also lauded the initiative:
“What an incredible cohort this year! Congratulations to Emeka Ossai and our friends at CampusLabs Nigeria! We are thrilled to see the amazing work you are achieving.”
With a growing network of talented founders, CampusLabs is bridging the gap in access to entrepreneurial resources, fueling innovation and sustainable growth.
“This program is about more than just building businesses,” said Emeka Ossai. “It’s about empowering the next generation of leaders, giving them the tools they need to succeed on a global scale, and contributing to a more equitable and innovative world.”