Join WEMA Hackaholics 2026—Africa’s leading innovation hackathon for problem-solvers, founders, and creative thinkers. Apply now for funding, mentorship, and support from Wema Bank.
Application Deadline:
- 2026 (exact closing date to be confirmed by Wema Bank)
Tell Me About the Program:
Hackaholics is Wema Bank’s flagship open innovation program, now in its 7th edition, themed “Powering Possibilities.” It is Africa’s leading hackathon platform for startups, innovators, problem‑solvers, and creative thinkers. Over the past seven years, Hackaholics has grown into a continental innovation ecosystem, offering funding, mentorship, partnerships, visibility, and market access to thousands of participants.
Which Tracks are Eligible?
Hackaholics 7.0 features three major tracks:
- Startup Pitch Competition – Showcase innovative solutions, attract partnerships, and access growth opportunities.
- Hackathon – developers, designers, and engineers solve real‑world problems with technology.
- Social Impact Track – Changemakers and organizations address pressing community challenges.
Type:
- Innovation Hackathon | Startup & Social Impact | Africa (Wema Bank)
Who can apply?
Applicants include:
- Startups and entrepreneurs.
- Developers, designers, and engineers.
- Social innovators and community organizations.
- Creative thinkers and problem‑solvers across Africa.
How Are Applicants Selected?
Selection follows the Hackaholics Roadmap:
- Applications.
- Shortlisting.
- Design Thinking Sessions.
- Pitch Sessions.
- Grand Finale.
- Accelerator Program.
- Mentorship.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
- African countries (with focus on Nigeria, Ghana, and Kenya).
Where is the program taken?
- Wema Bank Hackaholics Innovation Hubs and partner locations across Africa.
How Many Participants?
- Over 50,000 participants engaged annually.
- More than 10,000 startups supported since inception.
What is the benefit of the program?
- Access to funding opportunities.
- Mentorship from industry experts.
- Visibility and strategic partnerships.
- Community and market access.
- Accelerator support for scaling solutions.
How Long Will the Program Last?
- Runs through multiple stages culminating in the Grand Finale and Accelerator Program.
Challenge Areas:
Participants can build solutions in:
- Financial Inclusion
- Healthcare
- Digital Transformation
- Sustainability
- Education
- Social Impact
- Future of Work
How to Apply:
- Visit the Hackaholics 7.0 application portal.
- Select your track (Startup Pitch, Hackathon, or Social Impact).
- Submit your idea or solution proposal.
- Participate in design thinking and pitch sessions.
- Winners proceed to the Grand Finale and Accelerator Program.
