Wema Bank has opened applications for the Hackaholics 7.0 Hackathon, its flagship innovation programme designed to support Nigerian technology innovators, entrepreneurs, developers and problem-solvers building solutions to real-world challenges.
The 2026 edition offers a ₦200 million prize and funding pool, alongside mentorship, access to technology tools, industry exposure and networking opportunities for successful participants.
The programme brings together innovators across technology, finance, healthcare, education, sustainability and other sectors to develop solutions capable of creating measurable social and economic impact.
Who Can Apply for Wema Bank Hackaholics 7.0?
The programme is open to eligible innovators and teams in Nigeria who are prepared to commit to the full duration of the programme.
Applicants are expected to:
– Commit to the full programme;
– Participate in virtual and physical sessions under the hybrid programme model;
– Be willing to share relevant business data for mentorship and learning;
– Demonstrate readiness to engage with partners, customers and investors; and
– Have at least one founder or senior decision-maker actively participate in the programme.
Teams can develop solutions around a range of challenge areas, including:
– Financial Inclusion
– Healthcare
– Digital Transformation
– Sustainability
– Education
– Social Impact
– Future of Work
What Participants Stand to Gain ?
Successful participants in the Wema Bank Hackaholics 7.0 programme will have access to several opportunities, including:
₦200 Million in Cash Prizes and Funding
Participants will compete for cash rewards and funding of up to ₦200 million to support the growth and scaling of innovative solutions.
Mentorship from Industry Experts
Participants will receive guidance from professionals with experience across banking, fintech, technology and innovation.
Access to Bank APIs and Technology Tools
Selected teams will have opportunities to leverage technology resources, including bank APIs and other tools, to build and test their solutions.
Industry Recognition and Exposure
The programme provides innovators with an opportunity to showcase their products and ideas to industry leaders, decision-makers and potential investors.
Career and Investment Opportunities
Participants can connect with Wema Bank, investors, technology enthusiasts and other members of the innovation ecosystem.
Outstanding participants may also be considered for internship and job opportunities, including potential opportunities within Wema Bank’s innovation ecosystem.
How the Hackaholics 7.0 Programme Works ?
The Hackaholics journey is structured across several stages.
Stage 1: Application
Developers, designers, entrepreneurs and problem-solvers submit their applications and proposed solutions.
Stage 2: Regional Preliminaries
Shortlisted teams participate in regional competitions where they refine their solutions with support and mentorship from industry professionals.
Stage 3: Final Day Demo
The strongest teams from the regional stage present their innovations before a panel of judges comprising industry executives and technology leaders.
Stage 4: Grand Finale
The best-performing teams compete for the major prizes and funding. Exceptional solutions may also receive opportunities for further development with Wema Bank.
How to Apply for Wema Bank Hackaholics 7.0
Interested applicants can apply through the official Hackaholics platform.
Applicants are required to:
1. Register through the Hackaholics website.
2. Provide details about their proposed solution.
3. Submit the required information about their team members.
4. Include details of up to three team members.
5. Submit the application and await further communication.
Application deadline: The deadline was not specified in the information available for the programme.
Why Hackaholics 7.0 Matters
Beyond the cash prizes, Hackaholics provides Nigerian innovators with a platform to test ideas, access industry expertise, connect with potential investors and develop technology-driven solutions to pressing challenges.
For young entrepreneurs and technology professionals working in areas such as fintech, education technology, healthcare, sustainability and digital transformation, the programme offers an opportunity to move innovative ideas from concept to scalable solutions.
EduTimes Africa, a product of Education Times Africa, is a magazine publication that aims to lend its support to close the yawning gap in Africa's educational development.