The United Kingdom has invited Nigerian innovators and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to apply for the 2026 Digital Energy Challenge, a funding programme aimed at supporting AI and digital solutions for Africa’s energy sector.

The initiative, co-funded by the UK and European Union, will provide a total of €827,000 to selected projects focused on improving electricity access, strengthening energy systems, and boosting the efficiency of power utilities across African countries.

According to the announcement shared via the UK in Nigeria’s official X handle, the programme is open to innovators under two categories: a Tech Accelerator for digital projects in 51 African countries, and a Partnership category specifically for collaborative projects in Nigeria involving the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC).

The embassy noted that Nigeria, where about 90 million people still lack reliable electricity, presents a major opportunity for testing scalable and real-world energy solutions.

Selected projects will receive funding ranging from €150,000 for Tech Accelerator participants to €400,000 for Partnership projects, with support covering equipment, software development, training, and implementation.

Beyond funding, beneficiaries will also gain access to technical support, bootcamps, networking opportunities, and visibility campaigns coordinated by international development partners.

Eligibility is limited to SMEs with fewer than 250 employees, annual turnover below €50 million, and projects that are already beyond the ideation stage, digitally driven, and capable of being implemented within 12 months.

Applications opened on April 20, 2026, and will close on June 17, 2026, with interested applicants directed to the official programme website to apply.