Connect NextGen Hackathon 2026: Eligibility, How to Apply

Applications are open for the Connect NextGen Hackathon 2026. The Connect NextGen Hackathon (powered by Ericsson, in collaboration with the Federal Government of Nigeria and Tech Revolution Africa) is a national programme set up to identify, support, and scale early-stage tech startups building solutions for Africa’s pressing challenges.

Selected startups will go through an intensive hackathon and an acceleration programme; teams get mentorship, exposure, and access to strategic partners to help move ideas into sustainable, impact-driven ventures.

Focus areas

The hackathon targets these domains:

• Telecommunications: solutions that improve connectivity, network performance, and digital access
• FinTech: digital tools that enhance payments, banking, and financial inclusion
• HealthTech: tech that improves healthcare access, delivery, and outcomes
• AgriTech: solutions that boost farming productivity and food systems
• EdTech: digital solutions that improve learning and skills development
• Internet of Things (IoT): connected devices that enable smart, systems
• CleanTech: technologies focused on clean energy and environmental protection
• AI/ML: intelligent systems that automate tasks and drive better decisions
• Sustainability: solutions that support long-term social, economic, and environmental impact

Benefits for selected startups

Selected startups will get:

• An 8-week intensive acceleration programme
• Technical and business mentorship from industry experts
• Access to funding opportunities and investor networks
• Visibility through media, partners, and ecosystem platforms
• Networking with government, corporate, and ecosystem stakeholder groups
• A chance to pitch live at the Hackathon Demo Day

Eligibility

To qualify, startups must:

• Operate in Nigeria
• Have a minimum viable product (MVP)
• Show measurable traction or pilot usage
• Be gender-inclusive in team composition

Application process

After submission, applicants will receive a confirmation email; applications will be reviewed, and only shortlisted or selected startups will be contacted with next steps.

Apply here: Connect NextGen Hackathon 2026 application form

For more details: Connect NextGen Hackathon official page

Deadline

The deadline is 10 March 2026.

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This post is authored by Olusegun Fapohunda, the founder and editor of MySchoolGist.

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