NSIA Prize for Innovation 2026

The Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) Prize for Innovation (NPI) 2026 is an initiative designed to empower entrepreneurs and changemakers with innovative ideas that can drive significant social and economic impact. This program aims to nurture ingenuity and accelerate high-potential, early-stage, growth-driven solutions, primarily focusing on Nigerian startups. Eligible applicants must be Nigerian citizens, 18 years or older, running innovative and social impact-driven startups that have operated for at least six months within Nigeria. Startups should be looking to raise a seed round and must have developed a Minimum Viable Product (MVP). Participants must also be willing to commit to a 4-week fast-track accelerator program. The initiative seeks to inspire groundbreaking ideas that enhance productivity, strengthen industries, and deliver lasting social impact in Nigeria and beyond. The program focuses on innovative startups in sectors such as healthcare, climate technology, agriculture, manufacturing, financial inclusion, education, and broader technology. Winners will share a total prize pool of $275,000, comprising the NSIA Prize for Innovation ($220,000), the Cascador Prize for Impact ($45,000), and the Wema Bank Enterprise Prize ($10,000). Beyond cash prizes, the opportunity offers fully sponsored training with a partner institution, intensive mentorship, technical support, capacity development, strategic business networks, and access to significant investment opportunities, including securing between US$500,000 and US$1,500,000 in equity investment from Pula Xcelerator for mature businesses, and a chance to compete for over ₦100 million in equity-free grant funding at Wema Bank's Hackaholics.

Applicants are required to complete their applications through an online portal, providing comprehensive details about their digital product/service, business model, and minimum viable product.