• Top three winners to receive $30,000, $20,000, $15,000 seed funding
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is set to showcase 60 emerging startups from across West Africa at the 2nd ECOWAS Startup Awards holding in Abuja.
The 10-day programme, scheduled for September 21 to 30, 2026, is designed to promote innovation, digital transformation and regional economic integration while opening new markets and investment opportunities for young businesses across the sub-region.
The participating startups are expected to showcase innovative solutions spanning financial technology, healthcare, agriculture, education, clean technology, climate innovation and tourism technology.
A statement on the programme said activities would include virtual masterclasses, pitching sessions, exhibitions and networking opportunities, providing participating entrepreneurs with access to investors, business leaders and development partners.
The awards will also provide financial incentives for the top-performing startups, with the first-place winner receiving $30,000 in seed funding, while the second and third positions will receive $20,000 and $15,000 respectively.
Beyond the prize money, ECOWAS is targeting deals worth $5 million across the various thematic tracks, as part of efforts to connect innovative businesses with potential investors and commercial partners.
The regional body said the initiative would give startups an opportunity to demonstrate their solutions, forge strategic partnerships and explore opportunities to scale their businesses across the West African market.
The programme is also expected to strengthen the role of technology and entrepreneurship in driving regional economic integration and creating new opportunities for businesses operating across ECOWAS member states.
