The NextGen Innovation Challenge 2026 portal is now open, offering a new opportunity to empower Nigerian innovators and support the development of bold ideas that can shape the country’s technological future.
The NextGen Innovation Challenge 2026 is organised by the National Board for Technology Incubation (NBTI), a Federal Government agency led by Dr. Kazeem Kolawole Raji, in partnership with UKALD, a United Kingdom–based consultancy firm.
The challenge serves as one of Nigeria’s leading innovation platforms, connecting visionary entrepreneurs, researchers, and young talents with global investors, government institutions, and development partners. Its goal is to accelerate the growth of transformative ideas and technologies that can address real-world problems and create sustainable opportunities.
The 2026 edition will further strengthen collaboration between academia, government, and private investors. This partnership aims to drive innovation that aligns with Nigeria’s national development priorities and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
NEXTGEN 2026 also seeks to strengthen Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem by creating opportunities for the commercialisation of indigenous technologies. Through this platform, innovators can present solutions that have the potential to scale and position Nigeria as a regional hub for science, technology, and innovation excellence.
Participants are encouraged to showcase bold ideas and breakthrough solutions in key sectors such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), 6G Technology, Sustainable and Green Solutions, and other emerging technologies.
The programme is open to innovators, startup founders, researchers, and technology enthusiasts who are ready to transform ideas into impactful solutions. It provides a platform for individuals and teams to present innovative concepts that can contribute to Nigeria’s innovation-driven future.
Selected innovators will be invited for screening and mentorship and will also participate in the NEXTGEN 2026 Boot Camp and Grand Finale, where outstanding solutions will be showcased.
The deadline for submission is April 17, 2026.
To apply for the NextGen Innovation Challenge, interested innovators should visit https://nextgeninnovation.ng/nextgen-2026-portal/.
