Applications are now open for the OPay Innovation Challenge 2026.
This national initiative empowers Nigeria’s brightest undergraduates to create tech solutions that transform Africa.
The programme provides mentorship, career pathways, and substantial financial backing to help young innovators develop their tech solutions and prepare for real-world market application.
Backed by OPay, the initiative is supported by a massive ₦1.2 Billion fund, targeting student-led tech projects that solve critical problems across the African continent.
Programme Support
Selected undergraduates will receive structured support aimed at strengthening their technical and entrepreneurial skills.
Financial Backing: The programme features a ₦1.2 Billion initiative to support innovation and student development.
Expert Mentorship: Participants will receive dedicated mentorship from experienced professionals and ecosystem leaders to guide their product development.
Job Placement: The challenge provides direct pathways to career opportunities and job placements for top-performing candidates.
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Innovation Themes
Participants can innovate across any of these high-impact sectors reshaping Africa’s future.
- Fintech & Digital Payments
- Healthtech
- Cybersecurity & Data Protection
- Edtech
- AI & Automation for Social Good
- Climate & Sustainability Solutions
- Agritech
- Digital Tools for SMEs & Informal Sector
How much is the OPay Innovation Challenge grand prize?
The OPay Innovation Challenge 2026 offers millions of naira in project grants, scholarship awards, mentorship, fellowship opportunities and potential job placements for the top three teams.
The overall winner will emerge as the OPay National Innovator of the Year and receive a ₦10 million project grant, a ₦300,000 scholarship award, a certificate, a national media feature, mentorship from industry experts, advisory support to develop their prototype, and a job opportunity.
The second-place winner will receive a ₦5 million project grant, a ₦300,000 scholarship award, a certificate, a national media feature, advisory support for prototype development, and admission into the OPay Innovation Fellowship.
The third-place winner will be awarded a ₦3 million project grant, a ₦300,000 scholarship award, a certificate of participation, a national media feature, and a place in the OPay Innovation Fellowship.
Who is eligible for the OPay Innovation Challenge 2026?
Applicants must have downloaded the Gemini App and initiated basic prompts within Gemini.
Must be an undergraduate student offering any course of study in a Nigerian Tertiary Institution.
Must have a minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) score of 2.8/4 for Colleges/Polytechnics, or 3.5/5 (second-class upper credit) for Universities.
Preference will be given to students who can demonstrate significant financial hardship.
Eligible student can apply here:
Application Deadline: July 3, 2026