NASENI launches Xceler8 accelerator, offers Nigerian innovators up to $25,000 in support

The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has introduced a new accelerator program called Xceler8. This initiative aims to assist Nigerian innovators in science and engineering in transforming their working products into profitable businesses that can attract investors.

The three-month virtual programme was announced during a media event hosted by the NASENI Innovation Hub in Abuja. It will select 25 innovators from across Nigeria, with each receiving up to $25,000 in support, along with mentorship, hands-on product development assistance, business training, and direct access to investors.

NASENI Executive Vice Chairman Khalil Suleiman Halilu highlighted a critical issue the programme seeks to address:

*“Nigeria has many brilliant engineers and scientists, but there is a gap between the laboratory and the market.” *The challenge lies in turning innovative ideas into sustainable businesses that can grow and secure funding.

Participants can join the programme from anywhere in Nigeria, and it will conclude with a physical Demo Day in Abuja, where the top startups will pitch their ideas to investors, industry partners, and media representatives.

Busola Beckley Perez-Folayan, Head of the NASENI Innovation Hub, explained that Xceler8 is tailored for founders who have moved beyond the idea stage.

“We want applicants who are actively engaged in commercial activities and have clear goals to achieve by the end of the program.”

NASENI aims for the programme to accelerate all 25 startups, create at least 100 direct and indirect jobs, foster five strategic partnerships, and enhance the commercial readiness of the participating companies.

Who can apply for the NASENI accelerator, and how

The programme is designed to support entrepreneurs in key sectors such as agrotech, renewable energy, fintech, edtech, healthtech, and manufacturing. If you fit the criteria, this could be a great opportunity for you.

To qualify for the programme, you must be a Nigerian citizen aged between 15 and 40 years, residing in Nigeria, and operating a registered Nigerian company. Your business must have already completed at least five paid transactions. This means you should have real customers who have purchased your product, rather than just individuals who have shown interest or signed up without making a payment.

Additionally, your business needs to have a fully functional prototype or a commercially available product that addresses a tangible problem, specifically in the fields of science, engineering, or innovation. It’s crucial to understand that if your business is still in the concept phase with no developed product, this programme will not be suitable for you.

The application window opened on August 31, 2026, and will close on September 30, 2026. If you meet these eligibility requirements and your product is already generating revenue, this programme offers a unique opportunity for funding, mentorship, and access to investors, all without requiring you to give up any equity at the outset.