NESI Innovation Challenge 2026 for Nigerian Innovators (₦10 Million Pool Prize)

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Applications are open for NESI Innovation Challenge 2026. NESI Innovation Challenge is an innovation competition under Nigeria Electricity Supply Industry Week (NESI Week). The challenge seeks innovative ideas and solutions capable of addressing challenges within Nigeria’s electricity supply industry and contributing to the development of a more efficient, reliable and sustainable power sector.

The NESI Innovation Challenge 2026 is Nigeria’s leading PowerTech innovation competition, bringing together students, startups, innovators, and technology enthusiasts to solve real challenges in the electricity and energy sector.

Participants will have the opportunity to develop impactful solutions, receive mentorship from industry experts, connect with key stakeholders, and compete for a share of the ₦10 million prize pool. Beyond the competition, outstanding teams will gain access to incubation, pilot opportunities, and support to scale their innovations within Nigeria’s energy ecosystem.

NESI Innovation Challenge Focus Areas

Advanced Metering, Billing & Revenue Innovation
Grid Intelligence & Automation
Renewable Energy, Storage & Microgrids
Energy Theft & Loss Reduction
Energy Data, AI & Decision Intelligence
Energy Access, Inclusion & Affordability
Climate, Sustainability & Energy Transition
And other innovative PowerTech solutions

Benefits

Participants will have the opportunity to develop impactful solutions, receive mentorship from industry experts, connect with key stakeholders, and compete for a share of the ₦10 million prize pool.

Eligibility Criteria

The challenge is suitable for innovators, entrepreneurs, startups, technology developers, engineers, researchers and other solution builders with innovative ideas that can contribute to Nigeria’s electricity supply industry.
Applicants are encouraged to showcase solutions that can address real challenges across the power sector and demonstrate potential for practical impact.