Entrepreneurs seeking to expand their businesses can apply for the Learnstar Startup Challenge 2027, a pitch competition offering a ₦1.5 million prize to the winning founder.

The competition forms part of the Learnstar Creative Summit 2027, which brings together entrepreneurs, creatives, investors and industry professionals to explore business, innovation and the creative economy.

Five founders will be selected to present their businesses before a live audience and judging panel on the Exchange stage in Lagos. The winner will be announced on the event’s main stage on February 20, 2027.

According to the official competition page, applications will remain open until December 15, 2026.

The challenge provides selected entrepreneurs with an opportunity to showcase their businesses and compete for the ₦1,500,000 award. The official page confirms the prize amount and live pitching format, but applicants are advised to contact the organisers for further information on the award’s terms and disbursement.

The competition is aimed at business founders, although the published information does not outline a complete set of eligibility requirements.

Interested entrepreneurs should therefore consult the application portal to confirm details concerning eligible countries, business stages, sectors, required documentation and other selection criteria before submitting their entries.

To apply, founders should visit the official Learnstar Creative Summit competitions page at https://lcs.learnstar.co/competitions and select The Learnstar Startup Challenge. They should then open the application form, review the requirements, provide accurate information about their businesses and submit their applications before the deadline.

The application deadline is December 15, 2026. The five successful candidates will pitch their businesses live at the Learnstar Creative Summit in Lagos, with the final pitch scheduled for February 20, 2027.

SOURCE: LCS Learnstar