Deadline: March 10, 2026
Applications are open for the Connect NextGen Hackathon 2026. The Connect NextGen Hackathon (powered by Ericsson, in collaboration with the Federal Government of Nigeria and Tech Revolution Africa) is a national innovation initiative designed to identify, support, and scale early-stage technology startups building solutions for Africa’s most pressing challenges.
Through an intensive hackathon and acceleration program, selected startups will receive mentorship, exposure, and access to strategic partners, helping them transform ideas into sustainable, impact-driven ventures.
Focus Areas
The hackathon is designed to spotlight key domains of innovation and problem-solving.
- Telecommunications: Solutions that improve connectivity, network performance, and digital access.
- FinTech: Digital tools that enhance payments, banking, and financial inclusion.
- HealthTech: Technology that improves healthcare access, delivery, and outcomes.
- AgriTech: Innovations that boost farming productivity and food systems
- EdTech: Digital solutions that improve learning and skills development.
- Internet of Things (IoT): Connected devices that enable smart, data-driven systems.
- CleanTech: Technologies focused on clean energy and environmental protection.
- AI/ML: Intelligent systems that automate tasks and drive better decisions.
- Sustainability: Solutions that support long-term social, economic, and environmental impact.
Benefits
Selected startups will benefit from:
- An 8-week intensive acceleration program
- Technical and business mentorship from industry experts
- Access to funding opportunities and investor networks
- Visibility through media, partners, and ecosystem platforms
- Networking with government, corporate, and ecosystem stakeholder
- Opportunity to pitch live at the Hackathon Demo Day
Eligibility
To be eligible for the program, startups must:
- Operate in Nigeria
- Possess a minimum viable product (MVP)
- Demonstrate measurable traction or pilot usage
- Be gender-inclusive in team composition
Application
After submission, applicants will receive a confirmation email. Applications will then be reviewed, and only shortlisted or selected startups will be contacted with next steps.
For more information, visit Connect NextGen Hackathon.
