Clean Energy Startups Jostle For $1m All On Off-grid Energy Challenge

Nigerian clean energy startups are competing for All On 2026 $1 million Off-Grid Energy Challenge.

The challenge, which is a nationwide competition aimed at accelerating innovative solutions to expand electricity access to millions of underserved Nigerians, kicked off on July 2.

The programme targets Nigerian-owned companies developing scalable and commercially viable off-grid energy solutions.

Speaking about the challenge, the chief executive officer of All On, Caroline Eboumbou, described the challenge as a practical demonstration of the company’s commitment to investing in entrepreneurs tackling Nigeria’s energy deficit.

She noted that the country’s off-grid energy sector has consistently shown that patient and flexible financing, combined with strong market understanding, can deliver transformational results.

Also speaking, Innovation Hub Manager, Sele Inegbedion said the initiative was built on the belief that Nigeria already possesses the talent needed to solve its energy challenges.

“The Off-Grid Energy Challenge exists because we believe the solutions to Nigeria’s energy problems already live within Nigeria, in the minds and hands of our entrepreneurs. Our role is to find them, back them, and walk with them as they grow,” he said.

He added that the 2026 edition comes with more funding and stronger commitment to supporting businesses capable of bringing electricity and economic opportunities to underserved communities.

Since its inception in 2018, the challenge has committed $3.6 million to 36 Nigerian-owned companies, helping deliver clean energy access to more than 150,000 Nigerians living in unserved and underserved communities.

This year’s edition significantly raises the funding available, with successful applicants eligible to receive between $200,000 and $1 million in blended financing through a mix of grants and commercial investment. Winners will also benefit from technical assistance and investment-readiness support from the All On Hub.

The 2026 competition places special emphasis on projects that promote the productive use of energy, enabling businesses and communities to convert electricity access into economic opportunities through agricultural processing, healthcare, cold storage and enterprise development. It also prioritises innovations that improve opportunities for women and young people.

To qualify, applicants must be majority Nigerian-owned, for-profit companies legally registered and operating in Nigeria. They must also present innovative, commercially viable business models with clear plans to serve communities lacking reliable electricity within a 12 to 18-month investment period.

All On, an independent impact investment company seeded by Shell, provides debt, equity and technical support to renewable energy businesses working to close Nigeria’s energy access gap and improve electricity supply for low-income households and small businesses.