NITDA’s Builders Festival, part of Digital Nigeria 2026, is set for 10 to 12 November in Abuja. The programme aims to connect deployment-ready startups with institutions that have defined operational problems to solve.
The event highlights a ₦3 billion funding and contract pipeline. For founders, the bigger value sits in preparation. A meeting only helps when your product, evidence, and commercial terms are ready.
Build for a defined problem
The festival uses a challenge-matching model. Institutions submit real needs, and startups are matched with relevant solutions. Your pitch should state the problem, who faces it, what your product changes, and how success will be measured.
Bring proof, not only slides
Founders should prepare a working product demo, clear security answers, pricing logic, customer evidence, and a simple implementation plan. If your product handles money or sensitive data, explain your controls in plain language.
Know what a pilot requires
A pilot needs an owner on both sides, a narrow scope, measurable outcomes, a timeline, and a path for support. Avoid broad promises. Show what you will deliver in the first 30, 60, and 90 days.
Prepare your deal room documents
- One-page company profile.
- Short product demo and use case.
- Pricing or commercial model.
- Security and data handling summary.
- Team roles and implementation timeline.
Funding is useful. A customer relationship, successful pilot, and repeatable delivery process often matter more for a young company.
Read the Digital Nigeria 2026 Builders Festival details.
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