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.

APPLY HERE

World Food Prize Foundation is Hosting the Innovate for Impact Challenge Competition.

The World Food Prize Foundation, in collaboration with America’s Cultivation Corridor, presents the Innovate for Impact Challenge, an ambitious global initiative designed to accelerate agricultural technology (AgTech) innovation.

This pioneering competition identifies and supports early-stage, tech-driven startups whose solutions address critical challenges in global food security and sustainability.

About the Challenge

Launched at the 2024 Norman E. Borlaug International Dialogue, the Innovate for Impact Challenge invites visionary entrepreneurs from around the world to showcase breakthrough technologies capable of transforming agriculture.

The initiative reflects the Foundation’s mission to elevate innovation, inspire action, and advance solutions that alleviate hunger and strengthen global food systems.

Key Highlights

Global Call for Startups: Open to early-stage AgTech startups worldwide

Live Pitch Event: Finalists present at the 2025 Borlaug Dialogue

Top Prize: $50,000 awarded to the winning startup

Global Exposure: Opportunity to present before 1,500+ food and agriculture leaders from over 70 countries.

Timeline and Application Process

Submission Deadline: April 15, 2026

Top 10 Announced: July 16, 2026

Top 10 must submit pitch videos and financial statements.

Virtual Public Voting: July 16–25, 2026

Top 3 Announced: August 5, 2026

Finalists must travel to Des Moines, Iowa

Final Competition: October 20–22, 2026 at the Borlaug Dialogue in Des Moines.

A panel of expert judges will review submissions and evaluate live pitches to determine first, second, and third place winners.

Prizes and Recognition

Top Three Finalists Receive:

1st Place: $50,000

2nd Place: $10,000

3rd Place: $5,000

All finalists gain:

High-profile presentation opportunities at the Borlaug Dialogue

Direct engagement with investors, policymakers, and global industry leaders

Networking access to entrepreneurs, experts, and strategic partners

The Challenge is supported by Pivot Bio.

Website

APPLY HERE