The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), through the Office of Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI) and the Digital Trade Desk under the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, has opened applications for the pilot cohort of the Digital Export Acceleration Programme (DEAP).
The programme is designed to help Nigerian startups, SMEs, and digital businesses expand beyond local markets and position themselves for regional and international growth.
According to NITDA, DEAP will provide selected businesses with export acceleration support, market access advisory, strategic growth opportunities, and ecosystem connections aimed at helping Nigerian companies compete across Africa and globally.
Applications for the pilot cohort will close on May 30, 2026.
What is the Digital Export Acceleration Programme (DEAP)?
The Digital Export Acceleration Programme is an initiative focused on supporting Nigerian businesses with export potential. The programme seeks to prepare startups and SMEs for regional expansion under opportunities such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The initiative will connect selected businesses with industry experts, strategic partners, and support systems that can help them scale operations internationally.
According to details released by ONDI, participating businesses may receive:
- Export readiness support
- Market access advisory
- Investor readiness guidance
- Cross-border trade support
- Mentorship and strategic partnerships
The programme is targeted at high-potential Nigerian businesses operating in sectors including:
- Technology
- Agribusiness
- Fashion
- Healthtech
- Fintech
- Manufacturing
- Creative industries
- Logistics
- Edtech
- Renewable energy
Other scalable digital and export-capable sectors may also be considered.
Who Can Apply?
NITDA stated that eligible applicants must meet specific requirements before applying for the DEAP pilot cohort.
To qualify, businesses must:
- Be registered in Nigeria
- Have operated for at least two years
- Show evidence of market traction
- Have products or services with export or regional scalability potential
The agency also noted that only a limited number of businesses will be selected for the pilot programme.
Why the Programme Matters
The launch of DEAP aligns with ongoing efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s digital economy and increase the global competitiveness of Nigerian businesses.
With increasing opportunities for intra-African trade and digital exports, programmes like DEAP are expected to help local startups and SMEs gain access to larger markets, attract investment opportunities, and build international partnerships.
The initiative may also help businesses improve compliance, operational structure, and export readiness needed for expansion into African and global markets.
How to Apply
Interested startups, SMEs, and digital businesses are advised to submit their applications before the deadline.
Application deadline: May 30, 2026.
Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted after the review process.
To apply, interested applicants should use the Registration link: tinyurl.com/Pilotcohort1
