csrreporters 
First City Monument Bank (FCMB) and the Dutch Entrepreneurial Development Bank (FMO) have unveiled the FCMB–FMO AgriTech Investment Readiness Programme 2025, a strategic initiative designed to strengthen Nigeria’s agritech ecosystem by supporting startups and SMEs with funding, mentorship, and access to capital.
Developed in partnership with Heave Ventures, the programme will provide a ₦20 million grant pool for agritech ventures that demonstrate strong investment potential and scalability. In addition, participants will benefit from digital learning and fundability scoring via Zimara, a proprietary platform that applies alternative data and investment readiness benchmarks to identify bankable ventures.
Applications are open from August 8 to September 12, 2025, after which the top 20 startups will undergo a six-week intensive programme. The initiative will conclude in October 2025 with a pitch event before leading funders and investors.
Speaking on the programme, Mr. Kudzai Gumunyu, Divisional Head of Agribusiness & Non-Oil Exports at FCMB, noted:
“This is not just about traditional funding; it’s about nurturing and empowering agritech startups to drive inclusive and sustainable growth while unlocking Nigeria’s full agribusiness potential.”
Echoing this, Abiodun Lawal, CEO of Heave Ventures, stressed that scaling agritech innovation could transform value chains from production to export, create millions of jobs, boost foreign exchange earnings, and position Africa as a global agricultural technology leader.