Applications are open for the Connect NextGen Hackathon 2026, a national innovation initiative powered by Ericsson in collaboration with the Federal Government of Nigeria and Tech Revolution Africa.
This programme is aimed at technology startups and innovators in Nigeria who are working on solutions to address pressing challenges in sectors such as connectivity, finance, health, agriculture, learning and sustainability.
Eligibility for Participation
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be a startup or team operating in Nigeria with an existing minimum viable product (MVP).
- Show measurable traction or pilot usage of their solution.
- Demonstrate an inclusive team, including gender diversity.
Thematic Areas
The hackathon spotlights innovations across multiple domains, including:
- Telecommunications to enhance connectivity and network access
- Financial technology solutions for payments and inclusion,
- Healthcare applications that improve access and outcomes
- Agricultural technologies that help productivity and food systems,
- Educational technologies for learning improvement,
- Internet of Things systems,
- Clean energy and environmental technology,
- Artificial intelligence and machine learning, and
- Solutions that support sustainable social and economic impact.
Benefits of Participation
Participating startups that are selected will go through an eight-week acceleration programme tailored to strengthen technical and business elements.
Startups will receive:
- Guidance from industry mentors,
- Exposure to funding and investor networks,
- Visibility through ecosystem partners and media platforms,
- Opportunities to connect with government and corporate stakeholders,
- A chance to present live at the Hackathon Demo Day.
How to Apply
Entrepreneurs and tech founders in Nigeria who are building scalable and impactful solutions are invited to submit their applications through the Connect NextGen registration portal.
The application window is open until Tuesday, March 10, 2026, with the cohort kick-off and details on the Demo Day to be announced by the organisers.
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