Applications are now open for the 2026 Ericsson x Federal Government of Nigeria x Tech Revolution Africa Connect NextGen Hackathon, a national innovation initiative designed to identify and accelerate high-potential Nigerian tech startups.
Powered by Ericsson, in collaboration with the Federal Government of Nigeria and Tech Revolution Africa, the Connect NextGen Hackathon supports early-stage startups building scalable solutions to Africa’s most pressing challenges.
Selected startups will participate in an intensive hackathon and acceleration program designed to transform innovative ideas into sustainable, impact-driven ventures.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible, startups must:
- Operate in Nigeria
- Have a Minimum Viable Product (MVP)
- Demonstrate measurable traction or pilot usage
- Be gender-inclusive in team composition
Focus Areas
The hackathon highlights key innovation domains, including:
Telecommunications
Improving connectivity, digital access, and network performance.
FinTech
Enhancing digital payments, banking systems, and financial inclusion.
HealthTech
Expanding healthcare access, service delivery, and outcomes.
AgriTech
Boosting agricultural productivity and food systems innovation.
EdTech
Improving learning access and digital skills development.
Internet of Things (IoT)
Building smart, connected, data-driven systems.
CleanTech
Advancing clean energy and environmental protection solutions.
AI / Machine Learning
Creating intelligent systems for automation and decision-making.
Sustainability
Driving long-term social, economic, and environmental impact.
ALSO APPLY FOR:
IBM Impact Accelerator Program 2026 for Nonprofits and Government Entities
Program Benefits
Selected startups will receive:
- Participation in an 8-week intensive acceleration program
- Technical and business mentorship from industry experts
- Access to funding and investor networks
- Increased visibility through media and ecosystem platforms
- Networking with government, corporate, and innovation stakeholders
- Opportunity to pitch live at the Hackathon Demo Day
Application Timeline
- Applications Open: February 11, 2026
- Application Deadline: March 10, 2026
- Cohort Kick-off: To Be Announced
- Demo Day: To Be Announced
Why Apply?
The Connect NextGen Hackathon offers Nigerian startups:
- Corporate-backed credibility
- Government partnership exposure
- Strategic mentorship
- Investment readiness support
- National recognition
For early-stage founders ready to scale and attract strategic partners, this is a strong platform to accelerate growth.
Apply for the Connect NextGen Hackathon
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