The Nigeria Energy Forum (NEF) has officially launched the 11th Africa Energy Innovation Challenge (AEIC)! We are calling on young, early-stage energy entrepreneurs across the continent to step forward with their groundbreaking ideas.
If you are developing, prototyping, or scaling innovative energy devices, equipment, or digital solutions for agribusiness, social enterprise, fintech, or energy management using local resources
Who Can Apply?
- Age: Young African professionals and entrepreneurs aged 18 to 35.
- Team Requirement: Submit as a team of at least 3 members.
- Gender Diversity: Teams must reflect gender balance (at least one female and one male team member).
- Flexible Setup: Members can belong to different institutions, companies, or countries. Multiple applications per team or individual are permitted!
Evaluation Criteria:
Proposals will be judged by an expert panel based on four key attributes:
- Local Content: Harnessing local resources and expertise to drive scalable, high-impact community or industrial solutions.
- Originality & Creativity: Introducing fresh, creative approaches in underserved research or market areas.
- Commercial Viability: Presenting realistic, practical, and cost-effective prototype models with clear market execution plans.
- Youth Employment: Demonstrating direct potential to create quality green jobs or business opportunities for youth.
What You Can Win:
Up to 20 shortlisted teams will receive complimentary passes to participate in the virtual 11th Nigeria Energy Forum on November 19, 2026.
Enjoying this article? Share it with your network!
Selected winners will unlock:
- Cash Grants: A share of up to $10,000 USD to demonstrate or scale your solution.
- Incubation & Mentorship: Business workshops, expert mentoring, and venture incubation support valued at over $15,000 USD.
- Global Exposure: Pitch your vision directly to government leaders, investors, and international development agencies.
How to Apply
Interested applicants can follow these steps to prepare and submit their entries:
- Review Guidelines: Visit AEIC – The Nigeria Energy Forum to read the full application details and official guidelines.
- Download Template: Grab the official Innovation Challenge Template directly from the portal.
- Prepare Your Proposal: Format your initial prototype model submission (strictly fitting on a single-sided A4 page) according to the specified word limits:
- Project Title & Solution: (Max 250 words)
- Innovation Track & Expected Impact: (Max 50 words)
- Short Abstract: (Max 50 words)
- Design Tools & Methodology: (Max 50 words)
- Problem Statement: (Max 50 words)
- Estimated Costs & Timeline: (Max 50 words)
- Submit Online: Fill out the online form and submit your proposal directly on AEIC – The Nigeria Energy Forum.
Disclaimer
Edfrica shares opportunities for informational purposes only. Results and funding outcomes are not guaranteed.
