Startups operating across West Africa’s six key technology sectors are eligible to compete for $65,000 in cash prizes under the 2026 ECOWAS Startup Awards.
The competition, which opened on August 3, is targeting innovative businesses driving digital transformation, regional economic integration and sustainable development across ECOWAS member states.
The top three winners will receive $30,000, $20,000 and $15,000 respectively.
Beyond the cash prizes, the programme will provide selected startups with investor access, mentorship, regional visibility, networking opportunities and a six-month acceleration programme, alongside digital resources.
The six eligible sectors are EdTech, FinTech, HealthTech, AgriTech, CleanTech and TravelTech.
Read Also: how-climate-change-has-becomes-a-threat-in-the-niger-delta
To qualify, startups must be registered and based in an ECOWAS member state, have operated for at least two years and have a functional product or service. Applicants must also demonstrate market traction or scalability.
The organisers expect 60 startups to participate in the regional programme, which will feature masterclasses, startup clinics, pitch competitions, exhibitions, investor deal rooms and policy discussions.
Applications close on August 31, 2026, while the physical programme and regional finals are scheduled to be held in Abuja from September 28 to 30.
The awards are organised by the ECOWAS Commission’s Directorate of Private Sector and Industry and jointly implemented by the Pan African Alliance of Small and Medium Industries (PAOSMI) and the Investment Promotion Agencies of West African States (IPAWAS).
The initiative builds on the inaugural ECOWAS Startup Awards held in Niamey, Niger, in November 2021.
