The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has opened applications for the second edition of the ECOWAS Startup Awards, offering a total of $65,000 in cash prizes to innovative startups across the region, including Nigeria.

The programme is designed to identify, celebrate and support innovative startups while promoting digital entrepreneurship, innovation and economic integration across West Africa.

The second edition follows the inaugural ECOWAS Startup Awards held in Niamey, Niger, in November 2021.

OPPORTUNITY SUMMARY

PRIZES & BENEFITS

The ECOWAS Startup Awards offers $65,000 in total cash prizes to outstanding startups.

Additional Benefits

Selected startups will also have access to:

• Regional visibility across ECOWAS member states.
• Access to investors through dedicated deal rooms.
• Networking opportunities with founders, policymakers and development partners.
• A six-month post-award acceleration and mentorship programme.
• Digital tools, including computers, accessories and software.
• Opportunities to connect with investors and other ecosystem stakeholders.

ELIGIBLE STARTUP SECTORS

The programme will select 60 startups from the 12 participating ECOWAS member states across six key sectors:

OPPORTUNITY FOR NIGERIAN STARTUPS

Startups from Nigeria are eligible to participate in the ECOWAS regional programme.

The initiative provides Nigerian founders with an opportunity to showcase innovative solutions, gain regional exposure, connect with investors and participate in acceleration and mentorship programmes.

Note: The detailed eligibility requirements should be carefully reviewed on the official application portal before submitting an application.

HOW TO APPLY

Interested applicants should apply through the official ECOWAS Startup Awards application portal.

Step 1: Create an Account

Provide:

• Full Name
• Email Address
• Telephone Number (optional but recommended)
• Password of at least 10 characters

Step 2: Log In

After registration, log in to your dashboard and select New Application.

Step 3: Complete the Application

The application form contains Sections A through J.

Applicants can save their application as a draft and continue completing it later.

Step 4: Submit

Review all information carefully before submitting the completed application.

Official Application Portal:
https://ecowasstartupawards.ipawas.org/

SELECTION PROCESS

The selection process will take place in two phases.

1. National Selection

Each participating member state will nominate startups for part of its allocated slots, while the remaining slots will be filled through open public applications.

2. Regional Finals

Selected finalists will proceed to Abuja for the regional finals, where they will pitch their startups before an independent jury comprising industry experts, investors and policy stakeholders.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Applications will be assessed based on the following criteria:

IMPORTANT DATES

IMPORTANT NOTICE

Interested startup founders are advised to complete their applications before the 31 August 2026 deadline.

Applicants should carefully review the official eligibility requirements and provide accurate information when completing the application form.

APPLY HERE

Official ECOWAS Startup Awards Portal:
https://ecowasstartupawards.ipawas.org/

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