Nigeria's Premier Angel Pitch Program

Benue Business Angels Network

Inspired by Shark Tank & Lion's Den — BBAN connects Benue's boldest entrepreneurs with investors, mentors, and the capital they need to go from idea to impact.

₦10M+
Available Funding
50+
Startups Supported
3
Seasons Complete
LIVE NOW
B

BBAN Season 3

Watch entrepreneurs pitch live to
Benue's top business angels

Watch Episodes
Season 3 · Episode 4

Built to Bridge the Gap

The Benue Business Angels Network (BBAN) is an initiative designed to support the growth and development of nano and micro businesses, as well as startups in Benue State.

Inspired by popular business shows like Shark Tank and Lions' Den, BBAN bridges the gap between early-stage entrepreneurs and investors — providing mentorship, technical support, and funding.

The network also produces a televised series where entrepreneurs pitch live to the angels, showcasing the entrepreneurial spirit of Benue State for the world to see.

Seed Funding

Direct investment from angels

Media Exposure

Televised pitch episodes

Facilitate Access to Capital

Provide funding opportunities for startups and small businesses in Benue State through direct angel investment.

Mentorship & Technical Support

Expert guidance and resources to help businesses grow, scale, and succeed in competitive markets.

Foster Innovation

Support innovative ideas that contribute to economic growth and self-sufficiency across Benue and Nigeria.

Showcase Local Talent

Highlight Benue's entrepreneurial talent through a nationally televised pitching series.

How BBAN Works

A transparent, structured process designed to give every entrepreneur a fair shot at funding and mentorship.

01

Apply

Submit your startup application with your business idea, stage, and funding ask via the online form.

02

Screen

A selection committee reviews all applications and shortlists startups based on innovation, viability, and impact.

03

Prepare

Selected entrepreneurs receive pitch coaching, business model feedback, and presentation support from Hub 17 mentors.

04

Pitch Live

Pitch your startup to a panel of angels in a televised event — Shark Tank style, with a live audience.

05

Funded & Mentored

Successful pitches receive seed capital, ongoing mentorship, and access to the full Hub 17 network.

What You Gain as a Pitcher

  • Seed Funding

    Direct investment from angels — from ₦500K to ₦5M+ depending on the deal.

  • Expert Mentorship

    One-on-one guidance from seasoned business angels and industry experts.

  • Media Exposure

    Your pitch airs on television and online, bringing national visibility to your brand.

  • Hub 17 Network Access

    Access to Hub 17's full ecosystem — coworking, labs, training, and partnerships.

  • Business Model Refinement

    Pre-pitch coaching including pitch deck review, financial modeling, and go-to-market strategy.

Benefits of Becoming an Angel

  • Curated Deal Flow

    Pre-vetted, high-potential startups across multiple sectors, ready for investment.

  • Network of Fellow Angels

    Join a community of business leaders, industry experts, and fellow investors.

  • Brand & Media Recognition

    Feature on BBAN's televised series and Hub 17's media channels.

  • Impact Investment

    Invest in Benue's economy while building a diversified early-stage portfolio.

  • Annual Membership

    Annual membership with renewal benefits including co-investment opportunities and exclusive events.

Meet the Angels

BBAN's business angels are experienced entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders who bring capital, networks, and expertise to the table.

Lead Angel

Angel Profile 1

Technology & Fintech

Serial entrepreneur with 15+ years in the tech sector. Founder of two successful startups and active investor in 20+ early-stage companies across West Africa.

Angel Profile 2

Agriculture & Food Systems

Agribusiness pioneer with operations spanning 3 states. Passionate about building food security and empowering smallholder farmers through technology.

Angel Profile 3

Finance & Investment

Investment banker turned angel investor. Brings deep expertise in financial structuring, valuation, and portfolio management to BBAN startups.

Angel Profile 4

Healthcare & Social Impact

Healthcare entrepreneur and impact investor with a focus on health-tech, women's empowerment, and last-mile service delivery innovation.

Interested in becoming a business angel?

Apply to Join as Angel

Latest Episodes

Catch up on past BBAN pitch sessions — from heartfelt stories to high-stakes negotiations.

SEASON 3 · EP 4

Three Startups, One Angel — An Unforgettable Night

March 2026 · 42 min

SEASON 3 · EP 3

The AgriTech Duo Who Won ₦3 Million

February 2026 · 38 min

SEASON 3 · EP 2

Health-Tech Startup Scores a 40% Equity Deal

January 2026 · 45 min

Watch All Episodes on YouTube

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to apply to pitch at BBAN?

BBAN is open to entrepreneurs and startup founders based in Benue State or with significant operations in Benue. Your business can be at the nano, micro, or early startup stage. We welcome applications from all sectors — tech, agriculture, health, education, fashion, food, and more.

How much funding can I receive from BBAN?

Funding amounts vary by deal and are determined through negotiation between the entrepreneur and the angel(s). In past seasons, investments have ranged from ₦500,000 to over ₦5 million. Angels may offer equity stakes, convertible notes, or revenue-share arrangements.

Does BBAN take equity from all applicants?

No. Only startups that successfully negotiate and close a deal with an angel will have equity involved. The specific terms — including equity percentage, funding amount, and repayment conditions — are negotiated individually between the entrepreneur and the angel.

What is the application process like?

You submit an online application with a description of your business, your funding ask, and supporting materials. Our selection team reviews all applications and shortlists the strongest candidates. Shortlisted founders are then invited to Hub 17 for a coaching session, followed by the live pitch event.

How do I become a BBAN Angel?

Interested angels complete a membership application. There is an annual membership fee that grants access to BBAN's deal flow, exclusive events, co-investment opportunities, and the BBAN community. Angels are vetted to ensure they bring genuine value beyond capital — including mentorship, networks, and expertise.

Is the pitch event televised?

Yes! BBAN pitch sessions are filmed for broadcast on local television and distributed online through Hub 17's YouTube channel and social media platforms. This gives entrepreneurs significant media exposure even if they don't close a deal on the night.

Can I apply even if my business is very early stage?

Absolutely. BBAN is specifically designed to support nano and micro businesses as well as early-stage startups. You don't need a fully built product or revenue to apply — a clear idea, a compelling problem, and a credible team are what matter most at this stage.

Apply to BBAN Season 4

Ready to pitch? Or want to invest? Select your path below.

Entrepreneur Application

Still Have Questions?

Our team is ready to help. Reach out and we'll get back to you within 24 hours.

Contact Us Back to Hub 17