The 2026 edition of the OPay Innovation Challenge is now open for applications, giving Nigerian undergraduate students the chance to win project funding, scholarships, mentorship, internships, and possible job placements.
The programme is designed to support young innovators building technology-driven solutions that can solve real problems across Africa. From fintech and healthtech to agriculture and AI, students with strong ideas now have a platform to showcase their innovation skills on a national stage.
Applications close on June 14, 2026.
What is the OPay Innovation Challenge?
The OPay Innovation Challenge is a national competition created to empower Nigerian undergraduates with innovation funding, training, and career opportunities.
The initiative expands on OPay’s ₦1.2 billion 10-year scholarship commitment by combining:
- Financial support
- Innovation training
- Mentorship
- Skill development
- Internship opportunities
- Career placement support
Selected participants will go through different programme stages including webinars, exams, bootcamps, mentorship sessions, and a final pitch competition.
Innovation Areas You Can Apply For
Applicants can submit ideas or projects in any of the following sectors:
- Fintech & Digital Payments
- Healthtech
- Cybersecurity & Data Protection
- Edtech
- AI & Automation for Social Good
- Climate & Sustainability Solutions
- Agritech
- Digital Tools for SMEs & Informal Sector
Students are encouraged to focus on solutions that can create real social and economic impact in Africa.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the OPay Innovation Challenge 2026, applicants must meet the following conditions.
1. Be a Nigerian Undergraduate Student
Applicants must currently be studying in a recognised Nigerian tertiary institution, including:
- Universities
- Polytechnics
- Colleges of Education
Students from all courses and departments are eligible to apply.
2. Meet the CGPA Requirement
Applicants must have:
- Minimum CGPA of 2.8/4.0 for Polytechnics and Colleges
- Minimum CGPA of 3.5/5.0 for Universities
This is roughly equivalent to a second-class upper degree for university students.
3. Demonstrate AI-Assisted Design Skills
Applicants must show proficiency in AI-assisted design workflows, especially Canva-Gemini workflow usage.
This means participants should understand how to use AI tools to support idea creation, presentation design, or digital solution development.
4. Financial Hardship Advantage
Preference may be given to students facing significant financial hardship.
This means applicants who genuinely need financial and educational support may have stronger consideration during screening.
OPay Innovation Challenge 2026 Prizes
The competition offers millions of naira in grants and scholarship support.
First Place Winner
The winning team will receive:
- ₦10 million project grant
- ₦300,000 scholarship award
- National media feature
- Mentorship from industry experts
- Advisory support for prototype development
- Possible job opportunity
The winner will also earn the title:
“OPay National Innovator of the Year.”
Second Place Winner
Second place participants will receive:
- ₦5 million project grant
- ₦300,000 scholarship award
- National media feature
- Prototype advisory support
- OPay Innovation Fellowship
Third Place Winner
Third place winners will receive:
- ₦3 million project grant
- ₦300,000 scholarship award
- Certificate of participation
- National media feature
- OPay Innovation Fellowship
Programme Timeline
The challenge will run in multiple stages throughout 2026.
Applications & Screening — May to June
More than 100,000 applications are expected.
After screening, 48 teams made up of 240 students will be shortlisted.
Webinar & Exam Stage — June to August
Shortlisted applicants will participate in:
- 6-week virtual webinars
- Timed examination
- 30 questions in 30 minutes
The top 10 teams will move to the next stage.
Innovation Bootcamp — August to September
Finalists will attend a 6-week virtual innovation bootcamp organised by OPay digital experts.
Mentorship & Career Support — July to December
High-performing participants may receive:
- Mentorship
- Internship opportunities
- Job placement support
Grand Finale — November 6, 2026
The top four teams will pitch their projects before:
- Tech industry leaders
- Investors
- Angel investors
This final event will happen during the Empowering Futures Conference 2.0.
Documents and File Requirements
Applicants should note the following submission rules:
- All applications must be submitted in English
- Incomplete applications will be rejected
- Accepted file formats include:
Maximum file size allowed is 10MB per file.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Apply
Follow these steps carefully to apply successfully.
Step 1: Prepare Your Information
Before starting the application, prepare:
- Your student details
- CGPA information
- School ID or academic proof
- Innovation idea or project summary
- Supporting files if required
Make sure your documents are clear and properly arranged.
Step 2: Visit the Official Application Form
Applicants can apply through the official Google Form provided by OPay forms.gle/XrBeCYeMvPyY81wr5.
Open the form using a stable internet connection.
Step 3: Fill in Your Personal Details
Provide accurate information including:
- Full name
- School name
- Course of study
- Email address
- Phone number
- Academic level
Ensure there are no spelling mistakes.
Step 4: Submit Your Innovation Idea
Carefully explain your solution idea.
Focus on:
- The problem you want to solve
- How your solution works
- Why it matters
- The impact it can create
Simple, practical, and impactful ideas usually stand out.
Step 5: Upload Required Documents
Upload all requested files in the approved formats.
Check file sizes before submission.
Step 6: Review Everything Carefully
Before clicking submit:
- Double-check your details
- Confirm uploads are correct
- Ensure your CGPA information is accurate
Incomplete applications may be disqualified automatically.
Step 7: Submit Before Deadline
The application deadline is:
June 14, 2026.
Avoid waiting until the final day to prevent network issues or submission errors.
Tips to Increase Your Chances
Here are a few important tips for applicants.
Focus on Real Problems
Projects that solve actual community or business problems usually attract more attention.
Keep Your Idea Simple
You do not need an overly complicated solution. Clear and practical ideas often perform better.
Show Creativity
Try to demonstrate originality and innovation in your concept.
Improve Your Presentation
Since AI-assisted design skills are important, ensure your presentation materials look organised and professional.
Practice for the Exam Stage
The timed exam may test innovation, technology, and problem-solving ability, so preparation matters.
The OPay Innovation Challenge 2026 is one of the biggest student innovation opportunities currently available in Nigeria.
Beyond the millions in grants and scholarships, the programme gives students direct exposure to mentorship, career opportunities, investors, and the African technology ecosystem.
Students with innovative ideas in fintech, AI, agriculture, health, education, cybersecurity, sustainability, and digital business solutions are strongly encouraged to apply before the June 14 deadline.
