Published: June 12 2026
Locations: Nigeria
The NSIA Prize for Innovation NPI 40 is inviting applications from startups with potential to drive innovation and deliver impactful solutions in Healthcare, Climate and Food security, or Manufacturing. Eligible founders are encouraged to review the details below and submit their applications.
About NPI
The NSIA Prize for Innovation is an initiative of the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority designed to empower entrepreneurs and changemakers whose innovative ideas can drive meaningful social and economic impact. The programme nurtures ingenuity and accelerates high potential ventures by providing funding and strategic support to early stage growth driven solutions. Through this initiative NSIA aims to inspire groundbreaking ideas that enhance productivity, strengthen industries, and deliver lasting social impact in Nigeria and beyond.
For NPI 40 NSIA has built a strong ecosystem of support through its partnerships with Cascador, the Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain PVAC, Wema Bank, and the Enterprise Development Centre of Pan Atlantic University. This carefully assembled coalition brings a depth of expertise, institutional networks, and resources needed to significantly deepen the value that NPI 40 delivers to every startup that comes through the programme.
What Are The Goals Of NPI
The NSIA Prize for Innovation was established to strengthen Nigeria entrepreneurial ecosystem and support homegrown solutions with the potential to drive meaningful socio economic development. This mandate is anchored in five clear goals.
The first goal is to recognise and reward Nigerian innovators and startup founders in key sectors within the Nigerian business ecosystem. The second goal is to act as an early stage investment catalyst for innovators. The third goal is to mentor and equip founders with the tools required for scaling and product market fit. The fourth goal is to connect startup founders to potential investors. The fifth goal is to create a community of connected individuals to ensure partnership across industries and sectors.
What NPI Offers
Building a solution and ready to scale NPI could support your innovation and accelerate your growth. The NPI programme champions startups that are poised to shape the future with innovative solutions. If you have an innovative solution that drives progress, transforms industries, or addresses real world challenges, the programme provides the funding, mentorship, and resources to scale your solution.
The network of experts and industry leaders will guide you to expand your reach and make lasting impact. With this support you do not just build, you create sustainable solutions, unlock new opportunities, and lead the next wave of innovation.
Prize Pool
Successful applicants have the opportunity to win a share of the US$275,000 prize pool. This includes the NSIA Prize of $220,000, the Cascador Prize for Impact valued at US$45,000, and the Wema Bank Enterprise Award worth US$10,000. Winners also receive fully sponsored training at a partner institution.
How To Apply
Interested startups should apply now through the official application portal. The programme seeks early stage growth driven solutions in Healthcare, Climate and Food security, and Manufacturing sectors. Founders must demonstrate the potential to drive innovation and deliver impactful solutions in their chosen sector.
