CivicHive has officially announced the launch of its 2026 Civic Tech Fellowship, a 20-week intensive bootcamp designed for early-stage innovators using technology to solve social problems.
This program aims to identify and nurture the next generation of civic leaders who are leveraging digital tools to strengthen democratic participation.
With Nigeria hosting one of the world’s fastest-growing youth populations, the fellowship highlights civic technology as a critical catalyst for bridging gaps between citizens and their governments.
The program supports a wide array of tools beyond just high-tech software, including radio, SMS, and print media.
In a major strategic shift, the fellowship is now open to applicants from all West African countries, moving beyond its original focus on Nigeria.
This expansion is intended to foster a regional ecosystem that enables cross-border learning and collaboration among tech-driven change makers.
The 2026 cycle will focus on four primary thematic areas: Artificial Intelligence for Good, low-cost climate tech solutions, technology for social essential services, and tools for advocacy and social movements.
The goal is to support innovations that remain effective even in resource-constrained environments or shrinking civic spaces.
Funding and benefits
The fellowship will incubate 15 specific solutions across the region, providing participants with a comprehensive support system.
Selected fellows will receive specialized technical, product, and legal guidance, along with mentorship from established leaders in the civic tech sector.
To ensure that innovators can focus entirely on their projects, the program provides a monthly stipend for the duration of the fellowship.
Additionally, winners will receive a paid trip to attend the 2026 West Africa Civic Tech Conference to showcase their progress.
Application requirements and eligibility
The call is open to citizens or residents of any West African country who are working as individuals or in teams.
Applicants must have already tested their idea or been in operation for between one and three years to be eligible for the incubation stage.
The selection committee will prioritize ideas that demonstrate a clear potential for sustainability and long-term public value.
Candidates must also show a high degree of resilience and a commitment to participating fully in all fellowship activities from March through June 2026.
Deadline
The application window is strictly time-bound, officially opening on January 23, 2026. Interested innovators must submit their complete applications through the official portal before the window closes on February 11, 2026.
Following the selection, the fellowship will include lab sessions in April and culminate in a high-stakes Demo Day on July 23, 2026.
This final event serves as a platform for fellows to launch their refined solutions to a broader audience of partners and investors,.
Visit the CivicHive call page to apply. Explore our global opportunities page for more.
Summary not available at this time.
