IdeaPods: Building Nigeria's Future,
One Young Innovator at a Time.
Got a genius idea? It could earn you ₦5,000,000, scholarships, and an international trip with NASENI’s EVC!
Apply now for the Young Innovators Program (ages 5–16)
Why Join the IdeaPods Program?
IdeaPods by NASENI is more than just a program; it's a launchpad for the next generation of Nigerian innovators. We provide unparalleled resources, mentorship from industry leaders, and a community dedicated to fostering groundbreaking solutions to real-world challenges.
Ignite Your Innovation Journey
Expert
Mentorship
Seed
Funding
National
Recognition
Incubation
Access
About the Program
Building Nigeria's future, one young innovator at a time.
IdeaPods by NASENI is a groundbreaking national innovation program dedicated to unlocking the potential of young Nigerians aged 5 - 16. We believe in nurturing raw talent and transforming ambitious ideas into tangible solutions that drive national development and technological self-reliance. Our comprehensive ecosystem provides the tools, knowledge, and support needed to thrive in a competitive global landscape.
Our Vision & Objectives
The program empowers young Nigerians to tackle societal challenges through innovation, by offering them financial support, training, and mentorship. By building skills and fostering creativity, it strengthens the local innovation ecosystem and promotes sustainable, homegrown development.
The Pillars of IdeaPods Success
Inspire Innovation
Encourage kids to think creatively, spot real problems around them, and imagine amazing new ideas that can help their schools, communities, and even the world.
Support Development
Provide guidance from friendly experts, fun trainings, and the tools needed to turn ideas into real projects and working prototypes.
Connect Ecosystems
Build a big community of other kids, mentors, and partners, who will collaborate and open doors to exciting opportunities in Nigeria and around the world.
Fund Ventures
Provide support, starter money, and links to investors so projects can be grown into something people can use, maybe even a real business!
How IdeaPods Works (Program Structure)
Applications & Selection
Prospective innovators submit their ideas through an online portal. A detailed selection process evaluates proposals based on innovation, feasibility, and potential impact.
Training & Mentorship
Selected participants will undergo intensive training sessions focused on design thinking, business development, pitching and leadership.
Hackathons & Zonal Pitch Events
Prospective innovators submit their ideas through an online portal. A rigorous selection process evaluates proposals based on innovation, feasibility, and potential impact.
National Showcase
The best innovations from across all zones converge in ABUJA AT THE NASENI INVENTION FESTIVAL, presenting their solutions to investors, industry leaders, and government officials for wider recognition and scaling opportunities.
IdeaPods Important Dates
Program Launch
December 11
2025
December 11
2025
Call for application
Close of Application
January 11
2026
January 16
2026
Evaluation and selection of winners
Zonal Hackathons
January
26 - 30 2026
February 14
2026
Crowning of National winner
Study Tour abroad
March / April
2026
Program Launch
December
11 2025
December
11 2025
Call for application
Close of Application
January
11 2026
January
16 2026
Evaluation and selection of winners
Zonal Hackathons
January
26-30 2026
February
14 2026
Crowning of National winner
Study Tour abroad
March / April
2026
Program Launch
December
11 2025
December
11 2025
Call for application
Close of Application
January
11 2026
January
16 2026
Evaluation and selection of winners
Zonal Hackathons
January
26-30 2026
February
14 2026
Crowning of National winner
Study Tour abroad
March / April
2026
Who Can Apply to IdeaPods?
Applicant Categories
IdeaPods by NASENI is designed to empower a diverse range of young Nigerian innovators. If you have an idea that can transform Nigeria, we encourage you to apply.
Benefits & Opportunities
Participating in IdeaPods by NASENI opens doors to unparalleled advantages, designed to transform your potential into tangible success.
Access a grand prize of N5,000,000 to bring your innovative ideas to life.
Win a Study Tour abroad with the EVC of NASENI.
Win a Scholarship to a top University in Nigeria.
Receive technical training from seasoned experts.
Showcase your innovation on a national stage.
Receive access to NASENI SparkLab
Receive personalized guidance from seasoned mentors.
“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”
— Eleanor Roosevelt
Thematic Areas
Areas of Innovation
North West Zone
Gendered barriers to innovation and innovative thinking.
North Central Zone
Food security as a result of insurgency in the region.
North East Zone
Conflict and security issues.
South West Zone
High cost of education, especially for the average family.
South South Zone
Weak academia-industry integration.
South East Zone
Engagement of children in trading instead of schooling.
Innovation in Action
60
Innovators
6
Zones
6
Mentors
1
National Champion
Ready to Shape the Future?
Join IdeaPods by NASENI and be part of Nigeria's innovation revolution. Your ideas can change the world, start your journey today!
Frequently Asked Questions
We've got you covered
What is the IdeaPods by NASENI Program?
The IdeaPods by NASENI program is designed to identify, nurture, and empower young innovators in Nigeria. It provides resources, mentorship, and opportunities to develop solutions to real-world challenges.
Who can apply?
- Young Nigerian innovators who are 16 years or younger at the time of application.
- Applicants must be Nigerian citizens residing in Nigeria.
What is the age limit for participation?
Participants must be between 5 and 16 years old.
How long will the application period be?
The application will be open for four weeks: December 11, 2025 to midnight January 11, 2026.
How can I participate in the program?
Visit our website here for application details and requirements.
What are the benefits of participating?
- Financial support (prizes/scholarships)
- Mentorship from industry experts
- Capacity-building workshops
- Access to incubation/acceleration programs
- Opportunities for international exposure (study tour)
What kind of ideas or projects is the program looking for?
Innovative ideas addressing real-world challenges and supporting sustainable development.
Will I be working alone or in a team?
Participants are encouraged to form teams to promote collaboration and improve problem‑solving skills.
What is the duration of the hackathon?
Each zonal hackathon will run for 1 week: Sunday to Friday.
How many participants will be selected?
60 participants across Nigeria’s six geo-political zones.
How do I apply?
Applications will be submitted online via our website here.
What activities will participants engage in?
Zonal hackathons, workshops, mentorship sessions, and pitch training.
What are the program's long-term goals?
To strengthen Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem by developing homegrown talent and reducing reliance on external solutions.
Where will the program happen?
- Lafia, Nasarawa State
- Jalingo, Taraba State
- Kano, Kano State
- Enugu, Enugu State
- Osogbo, Osun State
- Calabar, Cross River State
What happens at the end of the program?
Top 3 winners per zone will be selected. The top winner from each zone will compete at NASENI Week in Abuja. Winners also join the NASENI Incubation Program and participate in an international study tour.
Why is IdeaPods important?
It builds a pipeline of young innovators and strengthens the national innovation ecosystem.