All On Opens Applications for 2026 Off Grid Energy Challenge, Offers Up to $1 Million to Clean Energy Startups
ONYINYECHI NWAIGBA 
Clean energy startups developing innovative solutions to improve electricity access in Nigeria now have the opportunity to secure significant funding, as All On has officially opened applications for the 2026 Off-Grid Energy Challenge.
The initiative is aimed at identifying and supporting high-potential businesses that are creating scalable off-grid energy solutions capable of expanding access to reliable, affordable and sustainable electricity across the country. Successful applicants stand a chance to receive funding ranging from $200,000 to $1 million, alongside technical support, mentorship and access to strategic industry networks.
The challenge reflects the growing need for innovative energy solutions in Nigeria, where millions of households, businesses and public institutions continue to face unreliable electricity supply. By supporting entrepreneurs developing clean energy technologies, the programme seeks to accelerate energy access while promoting economic growth, job creation and environmental sustainability.
About the Off-Grid Energy Challenge
The Off-Grid Energy Challenge is an innovation and investment programme designed to discover promising startups whose products and services can help bridge Nigeria’s energy access gap.
Rather than focusing solely on financial support, the programme provides participating businesses with opportunities to refine their business models, improve operational capacity and engage with investors and partners capable of helping them scale.
The challenge also aims to encourage locally developed solutions that address the country’s unique electricity challenges while contributing to Nigeria’s transition towards cleaner and more sustainable energy systems.
Who Can Apply?
Applications are open to startups and businesses operating within Nigeria’s clean energy sector.
The organisers are seeking companies that have developed innovative and commercially viable solutions capable of delivering measurable impact. While specific eligibility requirements may vary depending on the category, applicants are generally expected to:
- Operate within Nigeria’s clean or renewable energy sector.
- Offer innovative off-grid energy products or services.
- Demonstrate a viable business model with potential for growth and scalability.
- Show evidence that their solution can improve energy access for underserved communities, businesses or institutions.
- Demonstrate the capacity to execute and expand their solution if selected.
The programme is particularly interested in ventures that combine innovation with measurable social and economic impact.
Areas of Interest
The 2026 Off-Grid Energy Challenge welcomes solutions across multiple segments of the clean energy value chain.
These include:
- Solar mini-grid solutions.
- Standalone solar home systems.
- Renewable energy generation technologies.
- Battery storage and energy storage innovations.
- Productive-use energy solutions for agriculture and small businesses.
- Cold-chain technologies powered by clean energy.
- Energy efficiency solutions.
- Digital technologies that improve energy access or energy management.
- Other innovative off-grid energy solutions capable of expanding reliable electricity access.
Businesses working in related areas with innovative approaches are also encouraged to apply.
Funding Available
Selected startups will compete for funding ranging from $200,000 to $1 million, depending on the maturity of their business, the scalability of their solution and the potential impact of their innovation.
Beyond financial support, successful participants will also receive:
- Technical assistance from industry experts.
- Business development support.
- Mentorship from experienced professionals.
- Access to investors and strategic partners.
- Increased visibility within Nigeria’s clean energy ecosystem.
These additional benefits are intended to strengthen participating businesses and improve their ability to attract future investment.
Why This Matters
Nigeria continues to face one of the world’s largest electricity access gaps. Despite improvements in recent years, millions of people still lack access to reliable electricity, while countless businesses depend on expensive diesel and petrol generators to remain operational.
For many small and medium-sized enterprises, high energy costs remain one of the biggest obstacles to growth and profitability.
Off-grid renewable energy solutions—including solar mini-grids, solar home systems and battery storage technologies—are increasingly recognised as practical alternatives capable of delivering reliable electricity while reducing operating costs and environmental impact.
Supporting startups working in this sector is therefore viewed as an important step towards expanding energy access, improving productivity and encouraging sustainable economic development.
Supporting Innovation in Nigeria’s Energy Sector
Investment in local innovators has become increasingly important as Nigeria seeks to diversify its energy mix and strengthen climate resilience.
Entrepreneurs are developing solutions that address challenges affecting healthcare facilities, schools, agricultural businesses, markets, rural communities and urban enterprises.
Programmes such as the Off-Grid Energy Challenge help accelerate these innovations by providing entrepreneurs with the financial resources, technical expertise and industry connections needed to grow their businesses and reach more communities.
The initiative also aligns with broader efforts to increase the adoption of renewable energy technologies while supporting Nigeria’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable development.
Application Deadline
Applications for the 2026 Off-Grid Energy Challenge are currently open.
Interested startups are encouraged to review the eligibility requirements carefully and submit complete applications before the closing date.
The application window closes on July 31, 2026.
Eligible businesses with innovative clean energy solutions are encouraged to apply early to avoid last-minute submissions.
How to Apply
Interested startups can submit their applications HERE.
Before applying, applicants are advised to ensure they meet all eligibility requirements and have the necessary business information and supporting documents ready. Depending on the stage of the business, applicants may be required to provide details about their company, the clean energy solution they have developed, its impact, business model, growth strategy, and other relevant information that demonstrates the viability and scalability of the innovation.
Applications will be assessed based on several factors, including the level of innovation, commercial viability, scalability, potential social and environmental impact, and the team’s ability to successfully execute the proposed solution.
The application deadline is July 31, 2026. Early submission is encouraged to avoid last-minute technical issues and to ensure all required information is provided before the deadline.
Startups interested in participating can visit the official All On website and complete the online application before the closing date.
Looking Ahead
As demand for reliable and affordable electricity continues to grow across Nigeria, initiatives that support local innovation are becoming increasingly important.
The 2026 Off-Grid Energy Challenge offers more than funding; it provides emerging clean energy businesses with an opportunity to demonstrate their solutions, strengthen their operations and contribute to expanding energy access across the country.
For startups working to solve Nigeria’s energy challenges through innovation, the programme represents an opportunity to secure investment, gain industry exposure and accelerate their journey towards creating lasting impact.
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