In a bold move aimed at revolutionizing Nigeria’s digital infrastructure, a new initiative is underway to support startups and innovators.
The goal? To create inclusive digital solutions that bridge the gap for marginalized citizens and underserved communities across various sectors. This transformative
partnership is set to unlock the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) to tackle some of the country’s most pressing challenges.
Addressing Key Sectors for Systemic Change
This project focuses on driving real change across multiple sectors, including health, education, agriculture, public service delivery, and women’s empowerment.
By leveraging AI and DPI, the initiative aims to provide sustainable solutions that can enhance public services and improve the lives of underserved communities in Nigeria.
The project’s mission is grounded in the Public Value Theory, which emphasizes the creation of solutions that serve the greater good.
Through this approach, the goal is to fuel innovation, provide unparalleled support to startups, and foster a thriving ecosystem of AI solutions that have a lasting, positive impact on society.
Key Factors for Solution Success
The program will focus on three major factors when evaluating applicants for the initiative.
These factors will guide the selection of startups that are both technologically and socially sustainable, ensuring that their solutions have a meaningful and lasting impact.
1. Demand for Public Value
Solutions should address critical societal needs that can bring about real, measurable change for communities in Nigeria.
2. Legitimacy & Support Building
Startups must demonstrate alignment with stakeholders, ensuring broad-based support for their solutions and a greater potential for impactful results.
3. Operational Capacity Validation
It’s essential that startups can prove they have the tools, resources, and expertise to deliver sustainable outcomes, ensuring their solution is viable and scalable.
Program Eligibility
Before applying, ensure your startup aligns with the program’s criteria.
Successful applicants must meet these requirements:
1. Solution Quality
Applicants should demonstrate a strong problem-solution fit, with traction in the market. Solutions must be tested and effective in addressing the identified challenges.
2. Gender & Marginalization Support
A commitment to inclusive innovation is key.
Solutions should address gender disparities and work towards closing the gap for marginalized communities.
3. Technical Alignment
Solutions must be deeply technical, with a preference for those that leverage AI to improve DPI service delivery.
This includes innovative uses of technology to address sector-specific needs.
4. Working MVPs
Startups must have functioning Minimum Viable Products (MVPs) with active user engagement.
This program is not open to idea-stage solutions, so applicants should have an established product in the market.
Benefits for Startups
Selected startups will have access to several exciting benefits, including:
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A $20,000 Product Integration Grant
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Ongoing support through a dedicated Community of Practice
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Opportunities for product residency
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Increased visibility and exclusive promotional opportunities
Application Deadline
Applications for this exciting opportunity are open until April 16th, 2025.
Startups that meet the eligibility criteria are encouraged to apply and take part in this groundbreaking initiative.