About this opportunity
NASENI Xceler8 is a three month virtual accelerator for Nigerian science, engineering and technology innovators who have moved beyond the idea stage. The programme is designed to help founders refine a working product, build commercial readiness and scale into a stronger venture.
Twenty five selected innovators can receive up to $25,000 in programme support, structured business training, practical product development help, expert mentorship and direct access to investors. The programme is delivered online and is expected to culminate in a pitch event or Demo Day.
Applications and participation are free. The programme is for Nigerian citizens aged 15 to 40 who live in Nigeria, operate registered Nigerian entities and can show real customer traction.
What you receive
- Capacity building workshops covering business models, finance, market validation, scaling, leadership and pitch readiness.
- Hands on product development support to refine the product and reach defined milestones.
- Expert mentorship and technical support with regular progress reviews.
- Networking and industry collaboration with partners and fellow innovators.
- Up to USD 25,000 in programme support and investment readiness training.
- Post programme guidance after the accelerator ends.
Who can apply
- Be a Nigerian citizen aged 15 to 40 and currently reside in Nigeria.
- Operate a registered Nigerian entity with evidence of at least five completed paid transactions.
- Have a fully functional prototype or a live commercial product. Idea stage products are not eligible.
- Solve a problem in science, engineering or innovation using technology.
- Have an original innovation created by the applicant or team.
- Solve a local problem or improve community life in a way that fits the Nigerian context.
- Have a dedicated and well rounded team.
- State one specific and measurable milestone to achieve during the programme.
- Submit only one innovation and have an active Instagram account.
Who should not apply
- Idea stage products
- Nigerian citizens who do not currently reside in Nigeria
- Temporary visitors or students abroad
Documents to prepare
- Evidence of at least five completed paid transactions, such as receipts, bank statements or invoices.
- Product media, such as pictures of the innovation or software screenshots.
- A two minute video pitch showing the product in action.
How to apply
- Review the NASENI Xceler8 programme information and eligibility requirements.
- Prepare transaction evidence, product media and a two minute video pitch.
- Complete the Applicant Information section on the NASENI application form.
- Complete the Foundation Course questions.
- Upload the required evidence and submit the application before 30 September 2026.
Selection process
- NASENI will select 25 post MVP innovators.
- Selected participants complete a three month virtual accelerator with mentor set milestones.
- The programme concludes with a pitch event or Demo Day for investors and partners.
Sources and verification
Questions applicants ask
How long is the programme?
The programme runs for three months and all sessions are virtual.
How much support is available?
Each selected innovator can receive up to USD 25,000 in programme support, plus training, mentorship and investor access.
Who can apply?
Nigerian citizens aged 15 to 40 who live in Nigeria and have a functional prototype or live commercial product, subject to the full eligibility requirements.
Does it cost anything to apply?
No. Application and participation are free for selected innovators.
How do I apply?
Complete the application form on the NASENI Innovation Hub Xceler8 programme page and upload the requested evidence.
Important disclaimer
Nextali researches and curates useful opportunities to make discovery easier. Before applying, verify every timeline, requirement, fee and application link on the official provider website. Do your own research into the organisation, its background and the authenticity of the offer. Nextali does not guarantee selection, funding or the conduct of third party providers.
