Some pitch competitions are all about the cheque. This one is also about the room. The Learnstar Startup Challenge puts five Nigerian founders on a stage in Lagos, in front of creatives, investors and industry people, with ₦1.5 million going to the winner.
You have until December 15, 2026 to get your application in.
About the Programme
The challenge is part of the Learnstar Creative Summit 2027, a gathering of entrepreneurs, creatives, investors and industry professionals in Lagos. Learnstar is a Nigerian platform focused on young creatives and the creative economy.
Five founders will be shortlisted to pitch live on the Exchange stage. The winner is announced on the main stage on February 20, 2027.
Benefits
The winning founder takes home ₦1.5 million. The announcement does not spell out how the money is paid, so ask the organisers when you are shortlisted.
The bigger prize for many finalists is exposure. Pitching to a live audience of investors and creative industry leaders can turn into customers, partners and follow-up meetings.
Eligibility Criteria
- You are a founder with a business you can pitch publicly.
- You can attend the summit in Lagos for the live pitch if shortlisted.
- You meet the further requirements listed on the application form (business stage, sector and selection criteria are set out there).
Documents Needed to Apply
- Accurate business information filled into the online application form.
- A short, clear description of what your business does, who it serves and how it makes money.
- A prepared pitch ready for the live stage, in case you are shortlisted.
Judges like numbers they can trust. If your projections are still rough, a readymade business plan can give you a solid structure to build your pitch on.
Key Details at a Glance
Programme: Learnstar Startup Challenge 2027
Organizer: Learnstar Creative Summit
Eligible location: Founders pitching at the Lagos summit (check the application form for full eligibility)
Funding available: ₦1.5 million prize for the winning founder
Application deadline: December 15, 2026
How to Apply
- Go to the Learnstar competitions page.
- Select “The Learnstar Startup Challenge”.
- Open the application form and read the requirements carefully.
- Fill in your business details accurately and submit before December 15, 2026.
Only five founders make the stage, so do not send your application in on the last day with half-baked answers.
Final Thoughts
₦1.5 million will not build a factory, but it can fund a serious next step, and the stage can open bigger doors. Treat the application as a rehearsal for the pitch itself.
More funding deadlines are collected in our monthly opportunities list.