Scaling West African startups for digital transformation, regional integration and sustainable value chain ecosystem development to drive market access.
The ECOWAS Startup Awards were established to identify, celebrate and scale high-impact startups while advancing innovation, digital entrepreneurship and economic integration across West Africa. Following the inaugural edition in Niamey, Niger, on 18–19 November 2021, the Awards have become a platform connecting startups with investors, policymakers and development partners.
This second edition is expected to bring together 60 startups from across the Member States, and is designed in line with international best practices to ensure transparency, fairness, inclusivity and merit-based selection.
What selected startups receive
Cash prize
$30,000 for the winner, $20,000 for the first runner-up and $15,000 for the second.
Regional visibility
Profile across all twelve Member States.
Access to investors
Introductions through the deal rooms.
Networking
Founders, policymakers and development partners.
Mentorship support
A 6-month acceleration programme with capacity building.
Digital tools
Computers, accessories and software.
