Finding the right support and mentorship to scale a technology startup in Africa is a significant challenge for many early stage founders. The Connect NextGen Hackathon 2026, powered by Ericsson in collaboration with the Federal Government of Nigeria and Tech Revolution Africa, is a dedicated financial and technical support program designed to identify and scale impact driven ventures.
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By providing an intensive acceleration program and access to global strategic partners, the organizers ensure that brilliant innovators particularly those solving Africa’s most pressing challenges can focus entirely on scaling their solutions rather than searching for resources.
Connect NextGen Hackathon 2026 Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Host Organization | Ericsson and Tech Revolution Africa |
| Target Audience | Nigerian Early Stage Technology Startups |
| Primary Benefit | 8 Week Acceleration and Mentorship |
| Program Type | Hackathon and Startup Accelerator |
| Gender Focus | Must be Gender Inclusive in Team Composition |
| Application Deadline | March 10 2026 |
About the Connect NextGen Hackathon 2026
The Connect NextGen Hackathon 2026 is more than just a competition; it is a catalyst for the next generation of African tech giants. This national innovation initiative is specifically designed to support startups building solutions in key sectors like FinTech, HealthTech, and AgriTech. Through a rigorous selection process and an eight week intensive acceleration phase, selected ventures will receive the technical and business guidance needed to transform their minimum viable products into sustainable businesses. The program aims to strengthen the Nigerian tech ecosystem by connecting high potential startups with government and corporate stakeholders.
Benefits of the Connect NextGen Hackathon 2026
- Participation in a comprehensive 8 week intensive acceleration program
- Direct technical and business mentorship from world class industry experts
- Exclusive access to funding opportunities and global investor networks
- High level visibility through media partners and ecosystem platforms
- Networking opportunities with government officials and corporate executives
- Opportunity to pitch live at the prestigious Hackathon Demo Day
Available Courses
The 2026 hackathon spotlights innovation across several critical focus areas including:
- Telecommunications and Digital Connectivity
- FinTech and Financial Inclusion Tools
- HealthTech and Healthcare Delivery Systems
- AgriTech and Food System Innovations
- EdTech and Learning Development Solutions
- Internet of Things IoT and Smart Data Systems
- CleanTech and Environmental Protection
- Artificial Intelligence AI and Machine Learning ML
- Sustainability and Long Term Social Impact
Eligibility & Requirements of the Connect NextGen Hackathon 2026
- Operation Status: The startup must be operating within Nigeria.
- Product Stage: Applicants must possess a functional Minimum Viable Product MVP.
- Market Traction: Must be able to demonstrate measurable traction or results from pilot usage.
- Team Diversity: Startups must be gender inclusive in their team composition.
- Innovation Fit: Solutions must address at least one of the specified focus areas.
- Legal Compliance: Must be ready to undergo a review process for ethical and technical viability.
Step-by-Step Application Guide for the Connect NextGen Hackathon 2026
Phase 1: MVP Readiness and Traction Documentation
- Audit your current technology to ensure you have a functional MVP ready for demonstration.
- Compile data regarding your pilot usage or any measurable market traction achieved so far.
- Review your team structure to ensure it meets the gender inclusivity requirements.
- Select the focus area that best aligns with your primary business solution.
Phase 2: Online Registration and Information Review
- Visit the official Connect NextGen Hackathon portal to access the 2026 application form.
- Read the guidelines thoroughly to understand the commitments required for the 8 week program.
- Follow Ericsson and Tech Revolution Africa on social media for live updates and Q and A sessions.
- Prepare a brief summary of your startup mission and how it addresses African challenges.
Phase 3: Detailed Application and Technical Submission
- Fill out the online application form with accurate personal and business information.
- Provide technical details about your MVP and the specific problem it solves.
- Articulate your startup vision for long term sustainability and social impact.
- Submit your application and monitor your inbox for a confirmation email.
Phase 4: Review and Shortlisting Process
- Wait for the technical committee to review your submission for viability and innovation.
- Ensure your team is available for any follow up requests for information or clarification.
- Only shortlisted startups will be contacted regarding the next steps in the evaluation process.
- Prepare your pitch deck in anticipation of the acceleration phase.
Phase 5: Acceleration and Demo Day Participation
- Participate fully in the 8 week intensive acceleration program if selected.
- Engage with assigned mentors to refine your business model and technical infrastructure.
- Network with strategic partners and government stakeholders throughout the program.
- Present your refined solution to global investors during the live Hackathon Demo Day.
Expert Advice (STAR/SMART Methods)
- Use the SMART Method: Be Specific about the African problem you solve, ensure your traction is Measurable, and keep your goals Relevant to the Nigerian market.
- Apply the STAR Technique: When describing your MVP performance, explain a Situation your product addressed, the Task required, the Action your team took, and the Resulting impact.
- Emphasis: Focus on gender inclusivity and the measurable traction of your MVP.
- Proactive Tip: Submit your application early as the review process is intensive and focused on early stage potential.
Application Deadline: March 10 2026
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the Connect NextGen Hackathon 2026
Who are the main partners for this hackathon? The program is powered by Ericsson in collaboration with the Federal Government of Nigeria and Tech Revolution Africa.
What is the primary benefit for startups? Selected startups join an 8 week acceleration program with mentorship and investor access.
Does my startup need to be in Nigeria? Yes, the startup must operate within Nigeria to be eligible.
What stage of product do I need? You must have at least a Minimum Viable Product MVP to apply.
Is there a focus on gender diversity? Yes, startups must be gender inclusive in their team composition to qualify.
How long is the acceleration program? The intensive acceleration program lasts for eight weeks.
Will I get to pitch to investors? Yes, selected startups will pitch live during the Hackathon Demo Day.
What sectors are covered? Focus areas include FinTech, HealthTech, AgriTech, AI, CleanTech, and more.
How will I know if I am shortlisted? Shortlisted startups will be contacted directly via email with the next steps.
What is the application deadline? All applications must be submitted by March 10 2026.
