Applications are now open for the OPay & Google National Innovation Challenge and Bootcamp 2026. The programme supports Nigerian undergraduates building technology-driven solutions for real-world problems.
In addition, participants can access mentorship, innovation training, internship pathways, and up to ₦19.2 million in prizes and grants.
For more student opportunities, visit OpportunityLab.net
.Nigerian Undergraduate Innovation Challenge for Future Tech Leaders
The challenge helps students move beyond classroom learning into practical innovation and technology development.
Furthermore, the initiative combines Google’s technology ecosystem with OPay’s fintech expertise to support young digital innovators across Nigeria.
Opay Innovation Challenge 2026 Benefits
Selected participants will receive:
- Equity-free project grants
- Innovation bootcamp training
- AI and digital skills development
- Internship and mentorship opportunities
- National media exposure
- Prototype development support
- Access to investors and tech leaders
Prize Breakdown for Student Innovators
First Place Award
- ₦10 million project grant
- ₦300,000 scholarship award
- Job opportunity and mentorship support
Second Place Award
- ₦5 million project grant
- ₦300,000 scholarship award
- Innovation fellowship support
Third Place Award
- ₦3 million project grant
- ₦300,000 scholarship award
- National recognition and mentorship
OPay Student Innovation Program Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be undergraduate students in Nigerian institutions
- Study in a university, polytechnic, or college of education
- Maintain the required CGPA
- Show interest in technology and innovation
- Demonstrate basic AI-assisted design skills
Moreover, students from all academic disciplines can apply.
You can also explore more innovation programmes on OpportunityLab.net
Innovation Bootcamp for Students Timeline
Application and Screening Phase
Applications run from May to June 2026. During this stage, organisers will shortlist teams from thousands of entries nationwide.
Training and Bootcamp Phase
Shortlisted participants will complete:
- Six-week virtual learning sessions
- Technical examinations
- Innovation bootcamp training
- Mentorship and project development
Grand Finale Event
Finalist teams will pitch solutions before investors and industry leaders during the Empowering Futures Conference 2.0.
Why the Opay Tech Competition Matters
Many students have innovative ideas but lack funding, mentorship, and practical exposure. Therefore, programmes like this help young Nigerians develop valuable digital skills and scalable solutions.
The initiative also supports innovation, entrepreneurship, and youth employment within Africa’s growing technology ecosystem.
How to Apply for the Student Startup Challenge Nigeria
Interested students should prepare their teams, improve their AI design skills, and submit applications through the official portal before the deadline.
