ECOWAS is taking another major step toward building digital sovereignty. Five years after the first edition in Niamey, the ECOWAS Commission has officially relaunched the ECOWAS Startup Awards. The pan-African initiative aims to strengthen the region’s startup ecosystem and promote the development of technological solutions tailored to African realities.
In West Africa, digital innovation is emerging as a key driver of growth, integration, and job creation. In 2025, mobile technologies and services generated an estimated USD 240 billion in economic value across Africa, equivalent to 7.8% of the continent’s total GDP, according to the Mobile Economy Africa 2026 report. To identify young technology companies capable of addressing the challenges of the regional market, the 2nd edition of the ECOWAS Start-up Awards will take place from September 28 to 30, 2026. Applications are open in areas including EdTech, HealthTech, FinTech, AgriTech, clean technology, climate solutions, tourism, and TravelTech. The ambition is to turn innovation into practical solutions tailored to local realities.
I want to facilitate digital adoption among micro, small and medium-scale enterprises.
Peter Oluonye, Acting Director of Industry and Private Sector, ECOWAS
Five years after the first edition held in Niamey, the event returns at a time when access to funding remains a major challenge for young businesses. Out of nearly 6,000 applications, 60 startups with the strongest growth potential and highly scalable business models will be selected. They will benefit from training, mentoring, and networking opportunities with investors, financial institutions, and private-sector partners. The support is designed to help them accelerate the transition from innovation to growth.
You agree with me that access to finance is one of the key challenges of doing business in our region.
Peter Oluonye, Acting Director of Industry and Private Sector, ECOWAS
A total prize fund of USD 65,000 is up for grabs: USD 30,000 for the winner, USD 20,000 for the first runner-up, and USD 15,000 for the second runner-up. But beyond the prize money, ECOWAS aims to build a genuine regional ecosystem. The goal is to make startups a driver of innovation, competitiveness, and job creation, while using digital technology to strengthen the foundations of a stronger and more inclusive West African integration.
