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Thursday, April 2, 2026

Call For Applications: Startup Innovation Challenge 2026 for Nigerian Startups & SMEs (Over ₦100 Million in Prizes)



Applications are now open for the Startup Innovation Challenge 2026, a high-impact opportunity for startups, SMEs, and innovators across Nigeria to access funding, mentorship, and business support.

The program is organized by Startup Abuja, a social enterprise focused on empowering entrepreneurs and building Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem.

An online innovation challenge and business growth experience for startups, SMEs, tech innovators, and entrepreneurs across Nigeria.



Why You Shouldn't Miss This Opportunity
Over ₦100 million worth of prizes (cash + AWS credits + mentorship + business support)


Over ₦100 million worth of prizes (cash + support)

Access to at least ₦1,500,000 in AWS credits via Transnet Cloud.

Mentorship, visibility, and investor-readiness support.

Free AWS-powered environment to build during the innovation challenge.



Prize Categories (Equity-free)

1st Place
₦10 million value

₦5M Cash
₦4M AWS Credits
₦1M Business Mentorship/Training


2nd Place
₦8 million value

₦3M Cash
₦4M AWS Credits
₦1M Business Mentorship/Training


3rd Place
₦7 million value

₦2M Cash
₦4M AWS Credits
₦1M Business Mentorship/Training

10 Runner-Ups
₦8 million value

₦200,000 Cash
₦1.5M AWS Credits each person/team
All selected participants
₦500,000 worth of AWS credits



Challenge Categories :

EduTech
HealthTech
FinTech
AgroTech
Web3 / Blockchain
E-commerce
SaaS
Logistics / Transportation
Real Estate
And more...



Who Can Apply :

Both genders (age is not a restriction)
Nigerian or any other Africans
Non-Africans building for the African market
Your solution is tech-enabled
You have at least a working prototype/MVP for your solution (with a functional website)


Application Deadline

Application is open and will close on Sunday, 31st May 2026 by 11:59pm.



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