The Federal Government, in collaboration with Ericsson (NASDAQ: ERIC), has opened applications for the Connect NextGen Innovation Hackathon, a national initiative aimed at equipping Nigerian youths and startups with modern digital skills.
Participation in the programme is completely free for selected startups, making it a major opportunity for innovators seeking mentorship, exposure, and growth support.
The hackathon aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly in advancing digital economy development, technology integration, and innovation-driven education.
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Federal Government Connect NextGen Hackathon Overview
The Connect NextGen Hackathon is designed to identify and support early-stage technology startups building solutions to address Africa’s most pressing challenges.
The programme combines:
- A competitive hackathon phase
- An eight-week intensive acceleration programme
- Hands-on mentoring and technical guidance
- Practical learning across priority technology sectors
- Funding opportunities for startups
Selected teams will receive structured support to transform their ideas into scalable, impact-driven ventures.
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Focus Areas
The hackathon targets innovative solutions across key sectors, including:
1. Telecommunications: Improving connectivity and digital access
2. FinTech: Enhancing digital payments and financial inclusion
3. HealthTech: Strengthening healthcare access and delivery
4. AgriTech: Boosting agricultural productivity and food systems
5. EdTech: Advancing digital learning and skills development
6. Internet of Things (IoT): Building smart, connected systems
7. CleanTech: Supporting clean energy and environmental protection
8. AI and Machine Learning: Driving automation and intelligent decision-making
9. Sustainability: Promoting long-term social and environmental impact
Benefits for Selected Startups
Participants will gain access to:
- An eight-week acceleration programme
- Technical and business mentorship from industry experts
- Funding opportunities and investor connections
- Media visibility and ecosystem exposure
- Networking with government and corporate stakeholders
- Opportunity to pitch live at the Hackathon Demo Day
SEE ALSO: Teach For Nigeria Fellowship 2026 Application Now Open
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Connect NextGen Hackathon, applicants must:
1. Operate in Nigeria
2. Have a Minimum Viable Product (MVP)
3. Demonstrate measurable traction or pilot usage
4. Maintain a gender-inclusive team structure
The programme is open to:
- Startups
- University students
- Emerging innovators and young tech talent
Application Timeline
Opens 11th February 2026 and closes 10th March 2026. Applications are open nationwide to all Nigerians.
SEE ALSO: 2026 Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme for Graduates, (Offering N150,000 Monthly Stipend)
How to Apply for Federal Government Connect NextGen Innovation Hackathon for Nigerian Startups
Interested applicants should visit the Ericsson (NASDAQ: ERIC) official application portal via https://ericssonhackathon.techrevolutionafrica.org/application/ and complete the online application form.
Submit required information before the deadline. Only qualified startups will proceed to the next stage of selection.
You can also visit Federal Government Initiatives Board, Latest Grant Category and Job and Career Opportunity Desk Section to explore and discover opportunities you are qualified to apply for.
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