IIH SHIFT (Scaling Homegrown Innovations & Frontier Technologies) Programme 2026 – YOA

Deadline: October 2, 2026

Applications are open for the IIH SHIFT (Scaling Homegrown Innovations & Frontier Technologies) Programme 2026. SHIFT is a definitive enterprise creation engine designed to incubate and commercialise grassroots frontier expertise. Moving past generic software program functions, SHIFT identifies, funds, and scales technical founders constructing defensible options in sectors crucial to Africa’s future.

SHIFT is a strategic programme to determine, practice, and help Nigerian entrepreneurs constructing deep-expertise options. A 12-week commercialisation programme for Nigeria’s most technically bold frontier-expertise founders. Organised by the Ilorin Innovation Hub. Delivered with Co-creation HUB. Backed by the Kwara State Government and IHS Towers Nigeria.

Benefits

• 2 million naira funding for Idea-stage groups — even at prototype degree — with a validated drawback and full-time dedication.
• 5 million naira for startups with a working product, preliminary customers or income, and 6+ months of operation.
• Structured masterclasses, workshops and mentorship in entrepreneurship and innovation.
• Grants/stipends, co-working house and entry to IIH’s demo lab.
• Connections to corporates, traders, universities and authorities.
• A Demo Day platform to pitch for pilots, partnerships and funding.

Eligibility

• Student and analysis innovators with a tech-pushed concept.
• Early-stage startups in search of market launch.
• Local SMEs seeking to digitize or undertake new expertise.
• Diverse groups (2–4 members) with not less than one technical co-founder—not less than 30% of admitted groups embody feminine founders or underserved-group members.

Application

Click here to apply

For extra data, go to IIH SHIFT Programme.