ECOWAS launches second Startup Awards in Abuja

ECOWAS Startup Awards West African entrepreneurship seed funding digital transformation regional integration

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has launched the second edition of its Startup Awards in Abuja, Nigeria. The 10-day program, running from September 21 to 30, 2026, features 60 selected startups drawn from over 6,000 applicants across the region.

The initiative aims to drive digital transformation and regional integration through various thematic sectors, including FinTech, HealthTech, AgriTech, EdTech, CleanTech, and Tourism. The competition includes virtual masterclasses, exhibitions, and pitching sessions, with 20 finalists expected to pitch to an independent jury.

Total prize money amounts to $65,000 in seed funding, distributed as $30,000 for the winner, $20,000 for the first runner-up, and $15,000 for the second runner-up. Beyond the awards, the program seeks to facilitate up to $5 million in investment deals. Additionally, ECOWAS plans to establish the ECOWAS Private Sector Development Academy, a digital platform to enhance the capacity of entrepreneurs and policymakers.

Entities

Abuja · ECOWAS · GIZ · International Trade Centre · UNIDO

Sources

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