ECOWAS to Offer $65,000 to Nigerian Startups: How to Apply

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has launched its 2026 Startup Awards, offering a total of $65,000 in cash prizes to support innovative startups across West Africa. This initiative, now in its second edition, seeks to identify and celebrate businesses that are driving digital transformation, fostering regional integration, and promoting sustainable value-chain development.

The program, organized by the ECOWAS Commission's Directorate of Private Sector and Industry and hosted in Abuja, is a collaborative effort with the Pan African Alliance of Small and Medium Industries (PAOSMI) and the Investment Promotion Agencies of West African States (IPAWAS). The upcoming event is expected to gather 60 startups from ECOWAS member states, featuring a range of activities including masterclasses, pitch competitions, and investor deal rooms.

Startups can win significant cash prizes, with the top winner receiving $30,000, the first runner-up $20,000, and the second runner-up $15,000. Beyond the financial awards, selected participants will gain valuable regional exposure, introductions to investors, networking opportunities with industry leaders, mentorship, and a six-month acceleration program.

Applications are open to startups operating in six key sectors: EdTech, FinTech, HealthTech, AgriTech, CleanTech, and TravelTech. To be eligible, applicants must be citizens of an ECOWAS Member State, operate a registered startup within the region for at least two years, possess a working product or service, demonstrate market traction or scalability, and submit all required documentation, including proof of business registration.