Applications are now open for the SEVCP Pitch Competition, the flagship initiative designed to identifyand fund high-potential startups across South East Nigeria.
The programme connects startups with capital, mentorship, and ecosystem support to help them scale sustainably.
Who Should Apply?
The South East Venture Capital Program (SEVCP) Pitch Competition 2026 is open to:
- Tech-enabled startups
- Founders operating in South East Nigeria
- Startups with scalable solutions and growth potential
RECOMMENDED FOR YOU: Applications Open for Youth Empowerment Fund (YEF) 2026 with Grants Up to €5,000
SEVCP Pitch Competition 2026
1. Accelerator Track
For startups ready to scale:
- Live product in the market
- Proven traction (customers, revenue, usage)
- 12–24 months operational history
- Strong founding team
- Active presence in South East Nigeria
Benefit:
- $20,000 equity investment
- 6-month accelerator programme
- Investor exposure and mentorshipIncubation Track
2. For early-stage startups:
- MVP or working prototype
- Early market validation (users, pilots, waitlists)
- Committed founding team
- Up to 12 months activity
Benefit:
- $5,000 equity investment
- 6-month incubation programme
- Mentorship and ecosystem support
RECOMMENDED FOR YOU: 2026 Bloom Grant for Women Entrepreneurs ($1,000 Funding, Mentorship & Networking)
What Winners Get
1. Funding (up to $20,000)
2. Mentorship from experts and investors
3. Access to venture capital and angel networks
4. Startup ecosystem connections
5. Investor readiness training
Eligible Sectors for South East Venture Capital Program (SEVCP) Pitch Competition 2026
Only applicants that falls below any of the sectors below will be considered:
- Manufacturing & Industrial Tech
- AgriTech & Food Systems
- FinTech & Financial Inclusion
- Commerce & Logistics
- HealthTech
- Clean Energy
- EdTech & Skills Development
- Creative Economy
- SaaS & Digital Platforms
RECOMMENDED FOR YOU: 2026 Youth Leadership Development Fund (YLDF) Grant (Nigeria Youth Futures Fund) Now Open
Competition Timeline
| Applications Open | March 16, 2026 |
| Deadline | March 27, 2026 |
| Screening | March 28 – April 5 |
| Video Pitch | April 6 – 17 |
| Virtual Pitch | April 18 – 25 |
| Final Selection & Awards | May (Bootcamp & Finals) |
| To stay updated and informed | Follow Dailylight Channel on WhatsApp |
How to Apply for South East Venture Capital Program (SEVCP)
All interested and qualified applicants should visit the South East Venture Capital Program (SEVCP) official application portal to submit their application and await screening notice.
You can also check out more opportunities you are eligible to apply for on the Federal Government Initiative Category, Latest Grant Collection Category, and Job and Career Opportunity Desk.
