About this opportunity
Applications are now open for the ACE Startup Academy 2026 , a founder training and startup pitch programme designed to help aspiring and early-stage entrepreneurs transform innovative ideas into investment-ready businesses. The programme is organized in partnership with KOICA, SMEDAN, ACE Center, and the Soongsil University Consortium, offering participants hands-on training, mentorship, incubation, and funding opportunities.
Program Highlights
Successful participants will receive: Intensive founder training on business models, AI, and startup development Expert mentorship and hands-on support Opportunity to compete for $15,000 in total prize funding Six-month incubation programme Investor readiness and investment matching support Opportunity to receive an investment matching grant of up to $20,000 Demo Day participation Opportunity for a Korea Innovation & Research (IR) Trip Daily allowance during training Lunch provided Access to devices and internet AI tools and credits Certificate of completion
Programme Timeline
Founder Training 24 August – 18 September 2026 10 training days (60 hours) Pitch Competition 7 October – 12 October 2026 Approximately 50 teams will compete, with 10 finalists selected. Incubation & Investor Relations October 2026 – March 2027 Six-month incubation programme culminating in Demo Day.
Prize Awards Participants will compete for a $15,000 prize pool , including: Grand Prize: $5,000 Second & Third Prizes: $3,000–$2,000 Merit & Special Awards: $1,000–$500 All 10 finalist teams will receive awards.
Eligibility
Applicants must: Be aspiring or early-stage founders. Apply as a team of 2–3 members .
Be available to participate in the programme in Abuja . Register on a first-come, first-served basis.
Venue SMEDAN Garki Office, Abuja Application Period 31 July – 12 August 2026
Application steps
Interested applicants can apply through the official application portal: https://www. acestartupacademy.
com/apply? fbclid=PAVERFWATa_StwZG9mAmV4dG4DYWVtAjEwAHNydGMGYXBwX2lkDzEyNDAyNDU3NDI4NzQxNAABpzM6Ew63w4UGjpiRT57VCsxolMFhFBflXcucBMOHtxF4wPBopO6Vc6umRpl1_aem_gExGxvm_RRQBcCMUZpuGaA#top
Sources and verification
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