Startup Abuja in Partnership with Transnet Cloud & AWS present.
Startup Innovation Challenge 2026
An online innovation challenge and business growth experience for startups, SMEs, tech innovators, and entrepreneurs across Nigeria.
Why You Shouldn't Miss This Opportunity
Over ₦100 million worth of prizes (cash + AWS credits + mentorship + business support)
Access to at least ₦1,500,000 in AWS credits via Transnet Cloud
Mentorship, visibility, and investor-readiness support
Free AWS-powered environment to build during the innovation challenge
Prize Categories (Equity-free)
1st Place
₦10 million value
- ₦5M Cash
- ₦4M AWS Credits
- ₦1M Business Mentorship/Training
2nd Place
₦8 million value
- ₦3M Cash
- ₦4M AWS Credits
- ₦1M Business Mentorship/Training
3rd Place
₦7 million value
- ₦2M Cash
- ₦4M AWS Credits
- ₦1M Business Mentorship/Training
10 Runner-Ups
₦8 million value
- ₦200,000 Cash
- ₦1.5M AWS Credits each person/team
All selected participants
₦500,000 worth of AWS credits
Challenge Categories :
EduTech
HealthTech
FinTech
AgroTech
Web3 / Blockchain
E-commerce
SaaS
Logistics / Transportation
Real Estate
And more...
Who Can Apply :
Both genders (age is not a restriction)
Nigerian or any other Africans
Non-Africans building for the African market
Your solution is tech-enabled
You have at least a working prototype/MVP for your solution (with a functional website)
Important Details
Application Deadline
Application is open and will close on Sunday, 31st May 2026 by 11:59pm.
Active Digital Presence
Please ensure that your domain, website, and custom email remain active throughout the duration of the innovation challenge.
Next Steps
If you qualify for the next stage, we will reach out to you directly after the application window closes.
This is more than a competition — it's a gateway to funding, mentorship, visibility, and tools to build something impactful.