Young Innovators Programme Launches In Nigeria

Innovate UK Global Alliance Africa, in collaboration with the Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Digital Economy (MISDE) in Ekiti State, Nigeria, has launched the second edition of the Young Innovators Programme.

This initiative, aimed at fostering innovation and supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs, offers a promising US$9,000 cash prize to the winner, alongside access to invaluable mentorship and, training and startup capital. Innovate UK Global Alliance Africa was founded to build new and stronger UK-African partnerships to maximise the creation of inclusive market access, funding and investment opportunities through innovation knowledge transfer.

The Young Innovators Programme is a key component of Innovate UK Global Alliance Africa’s mission to build new and stronger UK-African partnerships. The six-year project, funded by UK International Development through Innovate UK (GCRF) and the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), is dedicated to leveraging UK and pan-African expertise to cultivate sustainable innovation ecosystems in Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa. The alliance held its first Young Innovators Programme last year, and this year’s second edition is focused on sustainable innovation and practical solutions to local challenges.

This year’s programme builds on the success of its inaugural edition, focusing on sustainable innovation and practical solutions to local challenges. It’s open to young innovators residing in Ekiti State who have already piloted or tested their innovative ideas and are passionate about the socio-economic development of the region. The programme welcomes ideas from all sectors, provided they address urgent economic issues in Ekiti State, allowing a kaleidoscope of creativity to flourish.

Participants will embark on a journey through a series of incubation and capacity-building sessions, including training, mentoring, and pitching activities. These sessions are designed to equip them with the essential skills and knowledge to transform their innovative concepts into thriving businesses. participants will also benefit from networking opportunities with mentors and experts from the UK, Kenya, South Africa, and Nigeria, fostering cross-continental collaboration and knowledge exchange.

“We are thrilled to announce the return of the Young Innovators Programme, which builds on the success of last year’s edition. We are looking forward to an even better programme this year,” said Innovate UK country lead Joshua Adedeji. “Our commitment remains resolute: to empower young innovators in Ekiti State by providing them with the essential resources and support needed to turn their groundbreaking ideas into reality.”

Applications for the Young Innovators Programme are now open, offering young entrepreneurs a chance to showcase their innovative ideas, pitch to investors, and access essential support to propel their ventures forward. For more information and to apply, interested candidates can visit the official website.