NASENI launches its Xceler8 accelerator, offering 25 Nigerian science and engineering startups up to $25,000 in non-equity support.

The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has introduced Xceler8, a three-month virtual accelerator program for 25 Nigerian innovators.

Selected participants will receive up to $25,000 in support, mentorship, hands-on product development assistance, and direct access to investors.

Eligible applicants must be Nigerian citizens aged 15 to 40, operating a registered company with a working prototype and at least five paid transactions.

The application portal opened on August 31, 2026, and is scheduled to close on September 30, 2026, concluding with a physical Demo Day in Abuja.

This initiative signals a deliberate public-sector effort to bridge the commercialization gap for Nigerian hardware, science, and deep-tech startups.

By offering up to $25,000 without demanding immediate equity, NASENI lowers the initial capital barrier for local innovators in high-risk sectors like renewable energy and manufacturing.

The success of this cohort will be measured by whether these public-backed prototypes can successfully transition into venture-backable businesses and secure private institutional funding.