The United Kingdom has invited Nigerian innovators and small and medium-sized enterprises to apply for the 2026 Digital Energy Challenge, a programme aimed at advancing technology-driven solutions in the power sector.
The call was announced on Monday through the official X account of the UK in Nigeria, highlighting opportunities for African startups to access funding and technical support.
The initiative, jointly funded by the UK and the European Union, seeks digital and artificial intelligence-based solutions that can expand energy access, enhance electricity systems, and support the transition to cleaner energy across Africa.
According to the announcement, applications are open under two tracks, including a Tech Accelerator designed for innovative digital projects across 51 African countries, and a Partnership category focused on collaborative projects in Nigeria in conjunction with the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company.
The UK noted that with an estimated 90 million Nigerians lacking dependable electricity, the programme presents a platform for innovators to test solutions in real-life conditions, scale their ideas, and develop models that can be replicated across the continent.
It added that a total funding pool of €827,000 has been set aside for successful applicants across both categories.
Under the Tech Accelerator track, selected participants can receive up to €150,000, while projects under the Partnership category may access funding of up to €400,000.
The financial support will cover critical areas such as equipment procurement, software development, capacity building, and project execution, alongside expert guidance and technical assistance.
In addition, beneficiaries will gain access to bootcamps, networking platforms, and visibility through communication campaigns coordinated by development partners, including Agence Française de Développement and the Digital Energy Community.
The embassy stated that eligible applicants must be SMEs with fewer than 250 employees, an annual turnover below €50 million, and a strong research and development focus, while also maintaining no conflict of interest with the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company.
It further explained that proposed projects must be digital solutions already beyond the conceptual stage and capable of being implemented within a 12-month timeframe.
Applications, which opened on April 20, will close on June 17, 2026, with interested participants encouraged to submit their entries via the official programme portal.
