If you have a startup operating in West Africa and are looking for funding, mentorship and opportunities to expand into new markets, the ECOWAS Startup Awards 2026 is an opportunity worth considering.
The programme is open to eligible startups from ECOWAS Member States and will bring selected founders together in Abuja for pitching, networking and regional exposure.
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Benefits
Successful participants can access:
1. Winner: $30,000
1st Runner-up: $20,000
2nd Runner-up: $15,000
2. 6-month acceleration programme
3. Mentorship and expert guidance
4. Access to potential investors
5. Regional networking and increased visibility
Opportunities to scale across West Africa
Priority Sectors
Startups operating in the following sectors are particularly relevant:
- FinTech
- AgriTech
- HealthTech
- EdTech
- CleanTech
- TravelTech
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View allEligibility Criteria for ECOWAS Startup Awards 2026
Applicants must:
- Be founders who are citizens of an ECOWAS Member State.
- Have a startup registered within the ECOWAS region.
- Have operated the startup for at least 2 years.
- Have a working product or solution.
- Demonstrate market traction and growth potential.
- Female-led startups are particularly encouraged to apply.
Event Details
Location: Abuja, Nigeria
Date: 28–30 September 2026
Eligible Countries: ECOWAS Member States
Application Deadline
31 August 2026 at 10:59 PM GMT
How to Apply for ECOWAS Startup Awards 2026
Interested and qualified startups should visit the ECOWAS Startup Awards 2026 official application portal to start and submit your application online.
You can also visit Dailylight Channel Graduate Jobs Section, Internship Program, Recruitment Exercises, and Job and Career Opportunity Desk Section to explore and discover opportunities you are qualified to apply for.
