Nigeria Competition Offers $1M for Clean Energy Solutions

Millions of Nigerians still live without reliable electricity, but a major competition is betting that homegrown entrepreneurs hold the key to changing that reality.

All On, Nigeria's leading off-grid energy investor, just launched its 2026 Off-Grid Energy Challenge. The nationwide competition will award between $200,000 and $1 million to companies developing innovative clean energy solutions for communities where power remains out of reach.

The stakes are higher than ever before. Winners receive not just funding, but also hands-on technical support and investment readiness training to help their projects succeed long-term.

Since launching in 2018, the challenge has already proven its model works. The program has invested $3.6 million across 36 Nigerian companies, bringing clean energy access to more than 150,000 people who previously lived in darkness.

This year's competition focuses on solutions that turn electricity access into economic opportunity. Priority areas include solar home systems, mini-grids, cold storage for food and medicine, agricultural processing equipment, and technologies that specifically help women and youth entrepreneurs.

"The solutions to Nigeria's energy problems already live within Nigeria, in the minds and hands of our entrepreneurs," said Sele Inegbedion, Innovation Hub Manager at All On. "Our role is to find them, back them, and walk with them as they grow."

To qualify, companies must be majority Nigerian-owned and operated, with legally registered businesses inside the country. Proposals need to demonstrate real innovation, serve underserved communities, and show a viable path to financial sustainability within 12 to 18 months.

The Ripple Effect

When communities gain access to reliable electricity, the transformation extends far beyond light bulbs. Farmers can refrigerate produce and reach distant markets. Health clinics can store vaccines safely. Students can study after sunset. Small businesses can operate machinery and stay open longer.

Each solar panel installed and every mini-grid built creates a foundation for economic growth in places where opportunity has been scarce. The 36 companies previously funded through this challenge aren't just selling electricity; they're powering new possibilities for entire communities to thrive.

Applications close July 31, giving Nigerian innovators one month to showcase their brightest ideas for bringing power to the people who need it most.