The Connect NextGen Hackathon 2026 is a national innovation initiative designed to empower Africa’s brightest tech entrepreneurs to build and scale solutions that address real-world challenges. Applications are open from February 11 to March 10, 2026, offering early-stage startups across Nigeria the opportunity to gain mentorship, funding access, and national exposure.
Powered by Ericsson in collaboration with the Federal Government of Nigeria and Tech Revolution Africa, this hackathon goes beyond coding. It is a structured pathway for startups to refine their ideas, strengthen their business models, and scale sustainable, impact-driven ventures.
About the Connect NextGen Hackathon 2026
The Connect NextGen Hackathon is more than a competition; it is a launchpad for technology startups in Nigeria. Designed as both a hackathon and an acceleration program, it supports founders who are already building innovative products and are ready to take the next step toward growth.
Selected startups will participate in an 8-week intensive acceleration program, where they receive technical guidance, business mentorship, and access to strategic partners. The program aims to help entrepreneurs transform promising minimum viable products (MVPs) into scalable businesses capable of driving measurable impact.
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With strong backing from corporate, government, and ecosystem stakeholders, Connect NextGen 2026 positions itself as a key driver of Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem.
Focus Areas: Driving Innovation Across Critical Sectors
The 2026 edition of the hackathon spotlights high-impact sectors that are shaping Africa’s digital and economic future. Startups applying to the program are encouraged to align their solutions with one or more of the following focus areas:
Telecommunications
Innovations that enhance connectivity, network efficiency, and digital inclusion, especially in underserved communities.
FinTech
Digital financial solutions that improve access to banking services, payments, and financial inclusion across Nigeria.
HealthTech
Technology-driven healthcare solutions that expand access, improve delivery systems, and enhance patient outcomes.
AgriTech
Innovations that increase agricultural productivity, improve food systems, and support sustainable farming practices.
EdTech
Digital learning tools that strengthen education access, skills training, and workforce readiness.
Internet of Things (IoT)
Smart, connected systems that use real-time data to improve infrastructure, services, and operations.
CleanTech
Sustainable energy and environmentally friendly technologies are designed to combat climate change and protect natural resources.
AI/ML
Artificial intelligence and machine learning applications that automate processes, enhance decision-making, and improve efficiency.
Sustainability
Solutions that promote long-term economic, social, and environmental resilience.
By targeting these sectors, the hackathon seeks to accelerate technology-driven development across Nigeria and beyond.
Program Benefits: What Selected Startups Gain
Startups selected for Connect NextGen Hackathon 2026 will receive:
- An 8-week structured acceleration program
- Technical and business mentorship from industry experts
- Access to funding opportunities and investor networks
- Increased visibility through media and partner platforms
- Networking opportunities with government and corporate leaders
- The chance to pitch live at the Hackathon Demo Day
The Demo Day serves as a high-profile platform where startups showcase their solutions to investors, policymakers, and industry stakeholders.
Application Timeline & Key Dates
Entrepreneurs interested in applying should take note of the following important dates:
- Applications Open: February 11, 2026
- Application Deadline: March 10, 2026
- Cohort Kick-off: To Be Announced
- Demo Day: To Be Announced
Applicants are encouraged to prepare early to ensure they submit complete and accurate applications before the deadline.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Connect NextGen Hackathon 2026, startups must:
- Operate within Nigeria
- Have a functional Minimum Viable Product (MVP)
- Demonstrate measurable traction or pilot usage
- Maintain a gender-inclusive team composition
The program is specifically designed for early-stage startups that have moved beyond the idea stage and are ready to scale.
Application Process
The application form collects essential details about:
- Founders and team members
- The startup’s product and traction
- Market opportunity and scalability
- Supporting documentation to verify eligibility
Applicants are advised to carefully complete each section of the form, ensuring accuracy and clarity. A strong application should clearly articulate the problem being solved, the uniqueness of the solution, evidence of traction, and the startup’s growth potential.
Why Connect NextGen Hackathon 2026 Matters
Nigeria is one of Africa’s fastest-growing technology hubs, with a vibrant community of young entrepreneurs driving innovation across industries. However, many startups face challenges such as limited funding, inadequate mentorship, and restricted access to strategic networks.
The Connect NextGen Hackathon addresses these barriers by combining corporate expertise, government backing, and ecosystem collaboration. By empowering founders with resources and connections, the initiative contributes to job creation, digital inclusion, and sustainable economic growth.
For startups focused on solving Africa’s pressing challenges through technology, this program offers a rare opportunity to accelerate progress and gain national recognition.
Apply Now!
The Connect NextGen Hackathon 2026 stands as a powerful initiative for Nigerian tech startups ready to innovate, scale, and create meaningful impact. With applications open from February 11 to March 10, 2026, now is the time for founders to position their ventures for growth.
If your startup has a working MVP, measurable traction, and a commitment to solving real problems through technology, this could be the opportunity that transforms your vision into a scalable success story.
Innovate. Compete. Scale.
For more information, visit the Connect NextGen Hackathon.
