Add us on Google
Nigerian inventors and innovators with market-ready scientific products now have a fresh opportunity to secure national visibility and possible commercialisation support as the Federal Government has opened applications for the Energise Commercialisation Now (ECoN) initiative.
The programme, led by the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology (FMIST) in collaboration with the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, is designed to identify promising inventions and innovations across the country and connect them with opportunities for commercialisation funding.
ECoN is aimed at transforming locally developed ideas into scalable products that can contribute to Nigeria’s industrial growth, job creation, and technology advancement.
Who Can Apply
The call is open to a wide range of participants from across Nigeria, including:
- Inventors and innovators from universities and tertiary institutions
- Researchers from knowledge institutions
- Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs)
- Professional organisations
- Youths in technology-driven enterprises
- Artisans and grassroots innovators
- Individuals from all sectors with impactful scientific inventions
Applicants must possess inventions, products, or services that demonstrate clear commercial potential and practical relevance.
Focus on Commercialisable Innovations
Unlike general innovation showcases, ECoN specifically targets inventions that are ready or nearly ready for market adoption. This means applicants should present products capable of attracting investment, scaling production, or entering commercial markets.
According to the organisers, submitted products will undergo a screening and evaluation process before final selection. Only shortlisted entries that meet the programme’s standards will be invited for exhibition and further consideration.
North-West Zone Flag-Off Begins in Kano
The official launch of the national initiative will begin in Kano State, covering the North-West geopolitical zone, from 23 to 25 April 2026.
Innovators resident in North-West states are required to complete their applications on or before Sunday, 19 April 2026, to be eligible for this first phase.
Dates for other geopolitical zones are expected to be announced later, allowing inventors from across Nigeria additional opportunities to participate.
Why This Matters
Nigeria has long faced challenges in moving inventions from laboratories and workshops into viable commercial markets. Many promising ideas fail to scale because of limited funding, weak industry linkages, and lack of structured support.
The ECoN initiative seeks to bridge that gap by creating a national platform where innovation can attract recognition, investment, and commercial backing.
For many Nigerian innovators, this could become a rare pathway from invention to enterprise.
How to Apply
Interested applicants are required to complete the official entry form online via the application link.
For enquiries, applicants may contact the organisers through the following officials:
- Dr. Nnenna Nwankwo – 08036370674
- Mr. Adamu Suleiman – 08033849467
- Mr. Agoro Olayiwola – 08092347007
- Mr. Femi Gbenga – 08035549338
Email enquiries can also be sent to: nnenna.nwankwo@scienceandtech.gov.ng
Final Note
For innovators across Nigeria working on products with real market value, ECoN presents more than a showcase opportunity — it is a chance to move from idea stage to commercial impact. With government backing and national reach, selected participants may gain the exposure needed to turn innovation into sustainable enterprise.
