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 programme set up to identify, support, and scale early-stage tech startups building solutions for Africa’s pressing challenges.
Selected startups will go through an intensive hackathon and an acceleration programme; teams get mentorship, exposure, and access to strategic partners to help move ideas into sustainable, impact-driven ventures.
Focus areas
The hackathon targets these domains:
- Telecommunications: solutions that improve connectivity, network performance, and digital access
- FinTech: digital tools that enhance payments, banking, and financial inclusion
- HealthTech: tech that improves healthcare access, delivery, and outcomes
- AgriTech: solutions 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, 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 for selected startups
Selected startups will get:
- An 8-week intensive acceleration programme
- 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 groups
- A chance to pitch live at the Hackathon Demo Day
Eligibility
To qualify, startups must:
- Operate in Nigeria
- Have a minimum viable product (MVP)
- Show measurable traction or pilot usage
- Be gender-inclusive in team composition
Application process
After submission, applicants will receive a confirmation email; applications will be reviewed, and only shortlisted or selected startups will be contacted with next steps.
Apply here: Connect NextGen Hackathon 2026 application form
For more details: Connect NextGen Hackathon official page
Deadline
The deadline is 10 March 2026.