If you’re a Nigerian startup founder, chances are you’ve asked yourself:
“Where do I even begin when it comes to finding investors?”
Funding is one of the biggest hurdles for most startups, especially in a fast-growing but unpredictable market like Nigeria. But here’s the thing, there are investors out there actively looking for businesses to back. The challenge? Knowing who they are, and how to reach them.
In this post, we’re sharing five simple, practical ways to help you connect with the right investors and position your startup for funding. And as a bonus, we’ve put together a free hitlist of 50 active investors currently funding Nigerian startups, so you’re not starting from scratch.
1. Start With People You Already Know
Before you look far, look around. Some of your first backers might be friends, mentors, former bosses, or business contacts. These early supporters don’t just provide cash, they vouch for your credibility, and that goes a long way when bigger investors come knocking.
Use this initial round to sharpen your pitch, share your vision, and gather feedback. Think of it as step one in proving your idea works — not just to yourself, but to everyone watching.
2. Tap Into Angel Investor Networks
Angel investors are everywhere, especially in growing markets like Africa. And many of them are eager to support local founders with bold ideas.
Check out platforms like:
Don’t just send a cold message. Do your research, understand their focus, and tailor your pitch accordingly. A thoughtful message stands out in a sea of copy-paste DMs.
3. Show Up Where Investors Are
Investors don’t sit around waiting, they go where the action is. Events like Lagos Startup Week, Techstars Demo Days, and Moonshot by Future Africa are designed for startups and investors to meet.
Here are a few to check out:
- Lagos Startup Week
- Techstars Demo Days
- Moonshot Conference by Future Africa
Pitch competitions are especially useful. Even if you don’t win, the exposure can open doors. Just make sure your pitch is short, clear, and memorable. These spaces are about connection first, capital second.
4. Use LinkedIn (The Right Way)
Most Nigerian founders underestimate the power of LinkedIn. This is where many local and international investors hang out, but it’s not just about sending your pitch deck.
Start by engaging. Comment on their posts. Share updates about your startup. Then, when you send that message, they already know who you are.
Pair this with research on tools like:
These platforms help you identify investors by industry, geography, and funding stage.
5. Get Expert Support From Halisi Consults
Fundraising doesn’t have to be lonely, especially when you can work with people who’ve done it before. At Halisi Consults, we help founders get investor-ready. That means business plans that make sense, pitch decks that actually work, and coaching that helps you speak to what investors care about.
We also help with warm introductions to investors, the kind that are already writing checks in your space.
Ready to get your Investor Hitlist?
We’ve done the digging so you don’t have to. This list features 50 active investors currently funding Nigerian startups, including:
- Angel Investors looking to support early-stage founders
- Venture Capital Firms funding growth-stage businesses
- Accelerators and Seed Funds offering capital + mentorship
- International Investors expanding their footprint in Africa
Whether you’re building in Fintech, Healthtech, Logistics, or Consumer products, there’s someone on this list you should be talking to.
Ready to Start?
Getting your startup funded is possible, but you need the right people in your corner. Click here to download our free VC hitlist to discover who’s funding Nigerian startups like yours.
And if you’re ready to tighten your pitch or plan a fundraising round, click here to book a free investor readiness consultation with Halisi Consults. Let’s help you turn your big idea into a funded business.
Happy fundraising!