Are you a driven entrepreneur in Nigeria looking to expand your business beyond local borders and tap into international markets? Are you eager to position your company to take advantage of opportunities like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)? Your journey to global growth starts right here.
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), in collaboration with the Office of Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI) and the Digital Trade Desk under the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, has announced the opening of applications for the inaugural cohort of the Digital Export Acceleration Programme (DEAP). This innovative program is designed to provide export-ready Nigerian businesses with the guidance, compliance support, and industry connections needed to compete effectively in Africa and beyond.
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Why It’s Important
Nigeria is home to a thriving entrepreneurial community, but many promising businesses struggle to expand internationally due to various challenges. Navigating foreign regulations, meeting global standards, and establishing reliable distribution networks in new markets can be daunting obstacles for even the most innovative companies.
The Digital Export Acceleration Programme is crucial because it helps businesses overcome these barriers and paves the way for sustainable growth. By preparing startups and SMEs for digital and physical exports, DEAP contributes to Nigeria’s digital economy and enhances the global standing of local brands. This initiative goes beyond just offering advice, it provides practical strategies, investor support, and institutional backing to attract foreign investment, forge international partnerships, and establish a strong presence across the continent.
Key Focus Areas
The pilot cohort is looking for ambitious Nigerian businesses with high growth potential in the following key sectors:
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Technology, Fintech, Edtech, and Healthtech
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Agribusiness and Renewable Energy
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Manufacturing, Logistics, and Creative Industries
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Fashion and other highly scalable, export-capable digital sectors
Program Benefits
Selected businesses in the pilot cohort will gain access to a powerful suite of growth-accelerating resources:
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Market Access Advisory: Receive specialized insights and strategic guidance to successfully enter new regional and international markets.
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Export Readiness Support: Learn to align your operations, products, and services with international standards and compliance protocols.
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Cross-Border Trade Support: Master the operational mechanics of international trade, including leveraging AfCFTA opportunities.
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Investor Readiness Guidance: Refine your business model and pitching strategies to attract international venture capital and investment.
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Mentorship & Ecosystem Connections: Gain direct access to network with industry experts, veteran trade specialists, and vital corporate partners.
Eligibility Criteria
NITDA has indicated that a limited number of high-potential businesses will be selected for this exclusive pilot run. To qualify, your enterprise must meet the following baseline requirements:
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Legal Status: Must be a legally registered business entity in Nigeria.
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Operational Maturity: Must have been actively operating for a minimum of two (2) consecutive years.
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Market Proof: Must show clear, documented evidence of existing market traction.
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Scalability: Must possess products or services with verifiable export or regional scalability potential.
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How to Apply
Do not let geographical borders limit the vision you have for your enterprise. Position your business at the forefront of Nigeria’s digital export revolution today.
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Official Application Link: Register your business immediately via the central portal at tinyurl.com/Pilotcohort1
Application Closing Date: 30th May, 2026
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