USPF opens ₦10m ICT innovation challenge for Nigerian innovators

Nigerian innovators and technology entrepreneurs have an opportunity to win a share of ₦10 million as the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF) opens applications for its nationwide ICT innovation challenge.

The initiative aims to encourage technology-driven solutions to challenges affecting communities across Nigeria, particularly areas where access to digital opportunities remains limited.

Applications are open to eligible innovators across the country, creating an opportunity for talented young Nigerians to develop solutions beyond the major technology centres of Lagos and Abuja.

Application deadline: November 15, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. West Africa Time. Participation is free.

Who can apply?

The competition is open to Nigerian-led innovation teams and early-stage startups with between two and five members. Every team member must be at least 18 years old.

Applicants must present an ICT-based idea or solution addressing at least one of the challenge's published problem statements.

Five areas open for innovation

The USPF has identified five sectors where technology-driven solutions are needed:

1. Agriculture: Digital solutions that address challenges facing farmers and improve agricultural productivity.

1. Education: Technology that improves access to learning and educational opportunities.

1. Healthcare: Digital innovations that improve healthcare access and service delivery.

1. Financial inclusion: Solutions that make financial services more accessible to individuals and businesses.

1. Clean and affordable energy: Technologies that address electricity access challenges, particularly in underserved communities.

Why innovators outside Lagos and Abuja matter

One of the significant aspects of the challenge is its nationwide approach.

According to the USPF, about 23 million Nigerians live in areas with little or no access to telecommunications services. Many of these communities face challenges that require practical solutions developed with an understanding of their local conditions.

The competition therefore seeks to encourage innovators beyond established technology hubs to develop solutions that respond to problems in their immediate communities.

Following the application screening, 50 teams will be selected for virtual Regional Demo Days. The selection will include at least one team from each of Nigeria's 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, alongside 13 additional teams selected on merit.

Six finalists, representing the country's six geopolitical zones, will advance to the National Demo Day. The top three teams will share the ₦10 million prize pool, while all six finalists will receive a four-week incubation programme to strengthen their innovations.

The competition is organised by the USPF in collaboration with the Nigerian Communications Commission and the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, with Ubulu Africa as its programme delivery partner.

How to apply

Interested teams can visit https://uspfchangemaker.ng/ to review the requirements and submit their applications.