Applications have opened for the ACE Startup Academy 2026, a founder training and startup pitch programme created to help aspiring and early-stage entrepreneurs develop innovative ideas into investment-ready businesses.

The programme is being delivered through a partnership involving KOICA, SMEDAN, ACE Center, and the Soongsil University Consortium. Participants will gain access to practical training, mentorship, incubation and funding opportunities designed to strengthen startup growth and investor readiness.

Programme Highlights

Successful participants will benefit from:

• Intensive founder training covering business models, artificial intelligence (AI) and startup development
• Expert mentorship and hands-on support
• Opportunity to compete for $15,000 in total prize funding
• Six-month incubation programme
• Investor readiness and investment matching support
• Opportunity to receive an investment matching grant of up to $20,000
• Participation in Demo Day
• Opportunity for a Korea Innovation & Research (IR) Trip
• Daily training allowance
• Lunch throughout the training programme
• Access to devices and internet
• AI tools and credits
• Certificate of completion

Programme Timeline

Founder Training

The founder training phase will take place from 24 August to 18 September 2026, consisting of 10 training days (60 hours).

Pitch Competition

The pitch competition is scheduled for 7 October to 12 October 2026. Approximately 50 teams will compete, with 10 finalists advancing to the final stage.

Incubation and Investor Relations

From October 2026 to March 2027, selected startups will participate in a six-month incubation programme, which will conclude with a Demo Day.

Prize Awards

Participants will compete for a $15,000 prize pool distributed as follows:

• Grand Prize: $5,000
• Second & Third Prizes: $3,000–$2,000
• Merit & Special Awards: $1,000–$500

All 10 finalist teams will receive awards.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be aspiring or early-stage founders
• Apply as a team consisting of 2–3 members
• Be available to participate in the programme in Abuja
• Register on a first-come, first-served basis

Venue

The programme will be held at the SMEDAN Garki Office, Abuja.

Application Period

Applications will be accepted from 31 July to 12 August 2026.

How to Apply

Interested applicants can apply through the official application portal:

https://www.acestartupacademy.com/apply?

Source: MSMEAfricaOnline