WAIIS 2026: artificial intelligence competition for ECOWAS startups
About
The competition organised as part of WAIIS 2026 recognises West African startups that already have a product or pilot incorporating artificial intelligence. Three winners each receive 5 000 USD. Applications closed on 10 novembre 2026.
Table of contents
About West Africa AI Youth Innovation Challenge
For youth-led startups from across West Africa already using AI to build businesses, widen clean energy and help farmers grow more. Submit online, pitch at Bintumani on 15 November, and the winners receive their awards at WAIIS 2026.
Eligibility requirements of WAIIS 2026 Challenge
- Have a working product or pilot that makes significant use of AI: ideas alone are not eligible.
- Have a lead founder aged 18 to 35.
- Be a startup registered or operating in an ECOWAS member state.
- Offer a solution that can serve Sierra Leone and the region.
- Submit only one application, under a single theme.
- Be able to send a founder to present the project in person at Bintumani on 15 novembre if shortlisted.
Three themes WAIIS 2026 Challenge
- Build : digital commerce, payments, logistics, industry and job-creating services.
- Green : clean or off-grid energy, energy efficiency, climate risks and environmental monitoring.
- Feed : agricultural advisory services, pest and disease detection, market prices, agri-food processing and climate risks.
Prizes and payment of WAIIS 2026 Challenge
The total prize fund is 15 000 USD, divided into three prizes of 5 000 USD, one per theme. Payment is made within 30 days of the announcement, following verification of identity, age and bank details. Three months later, each winner must submit a one-page report on how the funds have been used.
Selection and presentation of WAIIS 2026 Challenge
AfCEN checks applications for eligibility. Two judges per theme then assess each application. The top three startups in each category, nine in total, are invited to present their solution at the Bintumani International Conference Centre on 15 novembre 2026.
Each startup has seven minutes to present, followed by eight minutes of questions from the judges and investors. The final score combines the application assessment, worth 40 %, and the live presentation, worth 60 %. Only the judges award scores.
- Impact and potential for regional rollout: 30 %.
- Central role and functioning of AI: 25 %.
- Results achieved and economic viability: 20 %.
- Data protection, fairness and inclusion: 15 %.
- Alignment with national and regional public policy priorities: 10 %.
Required application documents of WAIIS 2026 Challenge
Applications are accepted in French and English and must include:
- An overview of the startup: name, country, year established, team and chosen theme.
- Proof of registration or operations.
- A presentation deck of no more than ten slides.
- A description of current funding sources.
- A demonstration video of no more than three minutes.
- A note on the use of AI and responsible data management.
- Evidence of results or impact: users, pilots, revenue or partners.
- An identity document or passport confirming the lead founder’s age.
Timeline of WAIIS 2026 Challenge
- 2 novembre 2026: call for applications opens.
- 4 novembre: online information session.
- 10 novembre: applications close.
- 11 et 12 novembre: eligibility checks and application assessment.
- 12 novembre: shortlist and presentation slots announced.
- 15 novembre: presentations at Bintumani, followed by an awards ceremony at JMBICC in Lungi, for winners only.
If you want to apply for the WAIIS 2026 Challenge for ECOWAS startups , click on the buttons below :
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