Do You Have a Bold Idea
That Can Change Nigeria?
Apply for the NGM x Dr. Kola Adesina DARE Nigeria Challenge 2026
Apply Now
Dr Kola Adesina
MD/CEO, Sahara Group
What Is the DARE Nigeria Challenge?
Your bold idea, backed by ₦30 Million in seed funding.
The Opportunity
Celebrating the NGM Platform's 10th Anniversary, the DARE Nigeria Challenge is a structured, multi-phase competition designed to find and scale Nigeria's most innovative youth-led enterprises. This is more than a pitch event—it's a launchpad providing seed capital, elite mentorship, and national visibility to 5 exceptional winners.
The Visionary Backing
This initiative was born from a spontaneous ₦30,000,000 pledge made live at NGM Conference 4.0 by Dr. Kola Adesina. His vision is clear: to put real resources behind young Nigerians who have the courage to build sustainable businesses. Winning means gaining not just capital, but the endorsement of one of Nigeria's most respected business minds.
Who Can Apply?
We are looking for Nigeria's brightest young minds. Review the criteria below to ensure your idea qualifies for the ₦30M DARE Nigeria Challenge.
Nationality
Must be a Nigerian citizen. We welcome applications from both residents in Nigeria and the diaspora.
Age Range
Applicants must be between 18 and 40 years old at the time of application.
Business Stage
Your enterprise must be at Idea stage OR Prototype/Early-traction stage.
Funding Status
Must NOT have raised institutional funding (e.g., VC, Private Equity, or formal grants).
Team Size
You can apply as an individual founder or as a team of up to 3 members.
Sectors
Agriculture, Health, Education, Fintech, Energy, Climate/Environment, or Social Enterprise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about transforming your backyard.
The NGM x Dr Kola Adesina Dare Nigeria Challenge is a flagship innovative competition targeting young Nigerians with bold ideas and the drive to transform them into national impact. Anchored by the NGM platform and Dr Kola Adesina, the challenge converts Dr Adesina’s historic pledge made at the NGM conference 4.0 into a structured, transparent, and rigorous programme to identify and fund outstanding early-stage innovators.
No. Non-NGM members can apply as well, provided they are willing to join the platform or the entrepreneurship club.
Applicant’s innovative ideas must be aligned with at least one sustainable development goals.
No, participation is free but you must have registered for the conference before applying.
Interested participants must complete the application form via this website and submit all required documents before the deadline.
All applications must be submitted on or before the 7th of June, 2026.
No, each applicant may submit only one business idea entry unless otherwise stated.
The application stages are: Application & Screening Shortlisting, Quarterfinal/Pitch Desk, Semi-Final/Bootcamp, Final Pitch Event, Selection of Winners.
Benefits include: Seed capital funding, Access to investors and funding opportunities, Exclusive Bootcamp training, Mentorship and advisory support, Networking opportunities and Media exposure.
Ready to Dare?
Applications close June 7, 2026. Free to enter. Built to change your business trajectory.
Apply now