The highly anticipated SUPERNOVA CHALLENGE at GITEX NIGERIA is now accepting applications, offering $22,000 in prizes and unprecedented investor exposure for Africa’s most promising startups. This premier startup competition will crown one champion across six dynamic categories on September 3-4, 2025, at the Landmark Centre in Lagos.
Major Prize Pool and Global Stage Opportunity
The SUPERNOVA CHALLENGE represents one of Nigeria’s most significant startup competitions, combining substantial financial rewards with invaluable exposure to global investors and industry leaders. With $22,000 up for grabs and a focus on transformative innovation, the competition provides a launching pad for Africa’s next generation of tech entrepreneurs.
Six Strategic Competition Categories
The challenge welcomes bold startups across six key sectors driving Africa’s digital transformation:
Technology Innovation:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) – Machine learning, automation, and AI-powered solutions
- Fintech – Digital financial services, payments, and blockchain innovations
- Health Technology – Digital health, telemedicine, and healthcare solutions
- Creative Economy – Digital content, media, and entertainment platforms
Additional Categories:
- Advanced technology solutions across emerging sectors
- Sustainable technology and climate solutions
Each category reflects Nigeria’s strategic focus areas for economic growth and technological advancement.
Exclusive Investor Exposure and Networking
Beyond the financial prizes, participants gain access to:
Global Investor Network:
- Direct pitching opportunities to international venture capitalists
- Access to angel investors focused on African markets
- Connections with corporate venture arms and strategic partners
Industry Recognition:
- Media coverage across major tech publications
- Speaking opportunities at GITEX NIGERIA
- Inclusion in startup showcases and demo days
Mentorship Access:
- Guidance from successful entrepreneurs and industry experts
- Technical mentorship from engineering leaders
- Business development support from seasoned founders
Application Deadline and Process
Critical Timeline:
- Application Deadline: August 1, 2025
- Event Dates: September 3-4, 2025
- Venue: Landmark Centre, Lagos, Nigeria
Interested startups must submit their applications through the official GITEX NIGERIA platform at gitexnigeria.ng before the August 1 deadline.
Strategic Government Partnership
The SUPERNOVA CHALLENGE operates under the strategic oversight of key Nigerian government agencies:
Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy:
- Providing policy support and regulatory guidance
- Ensuring alignment with national digital transformation goals
- Facilitating connections with government innovation programs
NITDA Nigeria (National Information Technology Development Agency):
- Supporting technical evaluation and mentorship
- Connecting winners with national tech development initiatives
- Providing ongoing support for scaling successful startups
GITEX NIGERIA: Africa’s Premier Tech Event
The SUPERNOVA CHALLENGE forms part of GITEX NIGERIA, positioned as Africa’s leading technology conference and exhibition. The event attracts:
- International technology companies and investors
- Government officials and policymakers
- Startup ecosystems from across Africa
- Corporate innovation teams seeking partnerships
- Media and industry analysts
Eligibility and Requirements
While specific eligibility criteria are available on the official website, the competition typically welcomes:
- Early-stage to growth-stage startups
- Companies with innovative technology solutions
- Startups demonstrating market traction and scalability potential
- Teams with strong technical capabilities and business models
- Companies aligned with Africa’s development priorities
Expected Impact and Outcomes
The SUPERNOVA CHALLENGE aims to:
For Participants:
- Accelerate startup growth through funding and exposure
- Connect African startups with global markets
- Build valuable investor and mentor relationships
- Provide platform for international expansion
For the Ecosystem:
- Showcase Africa’s innovation capabilities globally
- Attract international investment to Nigerian startups
- Strengthen connections between local and global tech communities
- Support Nigeria’s position as a leading tech hub
Registration and Next Steps
Startups ready to compete for the crown should:
- Visit the official website: gitexnigeria.ng
- Review detailed competition guidelines and requirements
- Prepare comprehensive application materials
- Submit applications before the August 1, 2025 deadline
- Prepare for potential follow-up interviews and due diligence
Call to Action for African Startups
The SUPERNOVA CHALLENGE represents a transformative opportunity for African startups to step into the global spotlight. With substantial prize money, investor exposure, and the backing of Nigeria’s leading government agencies, this competition offers a rare chance to accelerate growth and gain international recognition.
As the application deadline approaches, startup founders across Africa are encouraged to seize this opportunity to compete on a global stage and potentially transform their business trajectory.
