The United Kingdom has opened applications for the 2026 Digital Energy Challenge, calling on innovators and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), including those in Nigeria, to apply for funding aimed at advancing digital and artificial intelligence-driven energy solutions across Africa.
The announcement was made on Monday via the official X handle of the UK in Nigeria, highlighting opportunities for African startups working on innovations that improve energy access, support the energy transition, and enhance the efficiency of electricity distribution systems.
The programme, which is co-funded by the United Kingdom and the European Union, is designed to support digital solutions that address energy challenges across the continent, where millions still lack reliable electricity supply.
According to the statement, the initiative is open under two categories: the Tech Accelerator category for innovative digital projects in 51 African countries, and a Partnership category for collaborative projects in Nigeria developed with the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC).
The UK noted that around 90 million people in Nigeria still lack reliable access to electricity, describing the challenge as an opportunity to test scalable solutions in real-life conditions and develop innovations with strong research and development potential.
A total of €827,000 has been allocated to support selected projects. Winners under the Tech Accelerator category will receive up to €150,000, while those under the Partnership category may receive up to €400,000.
Funding will cover equipment, software, training, project implementation, and technical support. The programme will also include bootcamps, networking sessions, and visibility support through campaigns led by the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) and the Digital Energy Community.
Eligibility criteria state that applicants must be SMEs with fewer than 250 employees, annual turnover below €50 million, and projects must have a strong R&D component, be beyond the ideation stage, and be implementable within 12 months.
Applications opened on April 20, 2026, and will close on June 17, 2026.
Interested Nigerian applicants are advised to apply via the official portal at https://digital-energy.eu/en/digital-energy-challenge-for-start-call-projects.