By Esther Olaoluwa |
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has opened applications for the second edition of its Startup Awards, with $65,000 in cash prizes available to innovative startups across the region, including Nigeria.
The ECOWAS Commission announced the opening of applications on Monday, saying the programme is designed to identify, celebrate and scale innovative startups while promoting digital entrepreneurship, innovation and economic integration across West Africa.
Applications opened on August 3, 2026, and will close on August 31.
The second edition follows the inaugural Startup Awards held in Niamey, Niger, in November 2021.
60 Startups to Be Selected
The programme will select 60 startups from the 12 ECOWAS member states across six sectors. They include EdTech and Skills Development, FinTech, HealthTech, AgriTech and Food Systems, CleanTech, Climate and Green Innovation, and Tourism, Hospitality and TravelTech.
Selected startups will participate in virtual masterclasses from September 21 to 25 before proceeding to a physical event in Abuja from September 28 to 30.
The programme will culminate in regional finals in Abuja on September 30, where finalists will pitch their businesses before an independent jury comprising industry experts, investors and policy stakeholders.
Startups to Receive Cash Prizes, Other Benefits
The awards offer a total of $65,000 in cash prizes, alongside other opportunities designed to support the growth and visibility of participating startups.
The provided award information lists $20,000 for the first runner-up and $15,000 for the second runner-up. It does not specify the remaining prize allocation.
Beyond the cash awards, selected startups will gain regional visibility across ECOWAS member states, access to investors through deal rooms and opportunities to network with founders, policymakers and development partners.
They will also have access to a six-month post-award acceleration and mentorship programme, as well as digital tools, including computers, accessories and software.
How Startups Will Be Assessed
Applications will be assessed using several criteria covering the strength, viability and potential impact of each startup.
Problem clarity and solution fit will account for 20 per cent of the assessment, while innovation and originality will also carry 20 per cent.
Team capacity and execution ability will account for 15 per cent, while market potential and scalability will carry 10 per cent.
Business model and financial viability, social and economic impact, and alignment with ECOWAS priorities will each account for 10 per cent.
The remaining five per cent will be based on pitch, online voting and data integrity.
The initiative is expected to provide participating startups with opportunities for investment, mentorship, regional exposure and connections that can support their growth across West Africa.
Click on the link to apply: The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS)
