Got a solution that makes communities or online spaces safer for young people? UNFPA and its partners want to fund it. SafeTech Africa HackLab 2026 will give four winners seed capital of $5,000 to $10,000 each.
The call is open to young African innovators, which includes Nigerians. Applications close on 18 October 2026 at 23:59 CAT.
About the Programme
HackLab is a youth social innovation challenge led by UNFPA with the Spotlight Initiative Africa Regional Programme, the Global Programme to End Child Marriage, the African Union Innovation Lab, UNDP, UNICEF and UN Women.
You choose one of three themes: safe physical and community spaces, safe informational spaces, or safe digital spaces. Think tools to prevent community violence, youth-friendly health information, or answers to online harassment and disinformation.
Benefits
Four winners each get $5,000 to $10,000 in seed capital. At current exchange rates that can run into millions of naira, enough to build a first working version.
Winners also get pitch coaching, a chance to present at the YouthConnekt Africa Summit in November 2026, investor matchmaking and continental visibility. Shortlisted teams receive virtual mentorship using the UNFPA Social Innovation Toolkit.
Eligibility Criteria
- You must be a young African innovator aged 18 to 35.
- Social entrepreneurs and digital rights advocates with youth-led solutions are welcome.
- Your solution must fit one of the three challenge themes.
- No country exclusions are published, so Nigerians can apply. Confirm on the official page before you submit.
Documents Needed to Apply
- Team lead and member details
- Your chosen challenge theme
- A problem statement of up to 200 words
- An innovation description of up to 700 words
- A 12-month implementation roadmap with outputs and milestones
- A digital safety and inclusion note covering safeguarding, data privacy and accessibility
The roadmap is where many applicants fall short. If you struggle to turn an idea into costed milestones, our business plan service can help you structure it.
Key Details at a Glance
Programme: SafeTech Africa HackLab 2026
Organizer: UNFPA with the Spotlight Initiative Africa Regional Programme and partners
Eligible location: Young African innovators aged 18 to 35
Funding available: $5,000 to $10,000 seed capital for four winners
Application deadline: 18 October 2026, 23:59 CAT
How to Apply
- Read the full details on the call for applications.
- Pick one of the three challenge themes.
- Write your problem statement, innovation description and 12-month roadmap.
- Submit through the official application portal.
- Send it in before 23:59 CAT on 18 October 2026.
Final Thoughts
This is a social impact grant, so judges will care more about real change than a slick pitch. Be specific about who you serve and how you will measure results.
Looking for more? Browse our latest opportunities page for other open calls.