Application is now open for the USPF Changemaker Challenge, a hackathon competition under the Innovative ICT Solutions and Entrepreneurship Development (IISED) programme of the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF) aimed at providing a platform for ICT Startups to create fully working prototypes of ICT solutions capable of solving socioeconomic problems in Nigeria as well as deepening ICT penetration in Nigeria.
Scope
Talents & Startups who have Innovative tech solutions from a pre-defined set of categories can apply for the Hackathon. The 2024 edition of the programme will be held in the North and Sout regions of the country as follows:
- North Region: 25th to 27th April, 2024 in Sokoto
- South Region: 9th to 11th May, 2024 in Lagos
Benefits
Ten (10) of the best teams per region will be shortlisted for the hackathon events. The top three (3) teams will in addition to receiving prize monies, undergo mentorship, incubation, enjoy partnership in solution development & delivery, and gain exposure to potential investors. The program contributes to Nation building, ICT development, rural inclusion and economic growth.
- A pool of 5million Naira will be won per region
- 1st Prize: N2.5 Million, 2nd Prize: N1.5 Million & 3rd Prize: N1 Million
- Plus Consolation Prizes, Incubation, and Access to Investors
Tech Solution Categories
- AR/VR
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Security
- Cloud Computing
- Agro Tech
- Ed Tech
- FinTech
- e-Health
- Internet Connectivity
- Others
Eligibility Criteria for the USPF Changemaker Challenge
- Candidates must be Nigerian or permanent resident, residing in any part of Nigeria.
- Form a Team of at least two (2) persons and maximum of three (3) persons and must apply as a team.
- Candidates must be between 15 and 45 years of age.
- Candidates must have NOT won a previous USPF hackathon or any other ICT hackathon in the last 24 months (2 years).
- Candidates must have NOT undergone an incubation under a previous USPF hackathon or any other ICT hackathon in the last 24 months (2 years).
- Candidates must have an ICT solution or idea with a possible demonstration system that falls into one of the ten categories listed below.
How to Apply for USPF Changemaker Challenge
Click Here to apply
Application Window: 1st March to 14th April 2024.