The WEMA Bank Hackathon Hackaholics Program 2026 is officially open, and it is one of the largest innovation competitions in Nigeria, offering up to ₦200 million in cash prizes, mentorship, and direct access to one of Nigeria’s most forward-thinking banks.
If you are a developer, tech startup founder, product designer, or innovator looking to scale your idea, gain visibility, and attract funding, the Hackaholics Hackathon by Wema Bank is an opportunity you should not ignore.
Beyond the prize money, this program provides hands-on training, mentorship from industry leaders, access to banking APIs, and potential job or partnership opportunities with Wema Bank and its ecosystem.
In this comprehensive guide, you will learn everything you need to know about the WEMA Bank Hackathon Hackaholics Program, including eligibility requirements, benefits, program stages, and a step-by-step application process.
WEMA Bank Hackathon Hackaholics Program 2026 Summary
- Host: Wema Bank Plc
- Category: Competitions | Training
- Eligible Country: Nigeria
- Reward: ₦200 Million Cash Prizes | Training | Mentorship
- Mode: Hybrid (Virtual & Physical)
- Deadline: Not Specified
- Scholarship Alerts: To receive Scholarship Alerts on WhatsApp, click HERE
About WEMA Bank Hackathon Hackaholics Program 2026
The Hackaholics Hackathon is Wema Bank’s flagship innovation program designed to identify, nurture, and fund tech-driven solutions that solve real-world problems across finance, payments, digital banking, business automation, and emerging technologies.
Hackaholics brings together:
- Software developers
- Product designers
- Startup founders
- Data scientists
- Innovators and problem-solvers
from across Nigeria to collaborate, compete, and build impactful digital products.
As one of Nigeria’s oldest banks with a strong digital transformation focus, Wema Bank uses Hackaholics to drive innovation while empowering young Nigerians to become job creators, not job seekers.
WEMA Bank Hackathon Hackaholics Program 2026
Why the WEMA Bank Hackathon Matters
Nigeria’s tech ecosystem is growing rapidly, but access to funding, mentorship, and enterprise partnerships remains a major challenge for many innovators.
The WEMA Bank Hackathon Hackaholics Program bridges this gap by:
- Providing non-equity funding opportunities
- Connecting innovators directly with bank executives and investors
- Offering real-world use cases and APIs
- Supporting solutions that can scale nationally and globally
This is not just a hackathon, it is a launchpad for high-potential startups and tech talents.
Eligibility Requirements for WEMA Bank Hackaholics Program 2026
To apply for the Wema Bank Hackathon Hackaholics Program, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Commit to participating throughout the entire duration of the program
- Be available for both virtual and physical sessions (hybrid format)
- Be open to sharing business or solution data for mentorship and evaluation
- Demonstrate readiness to engage with partners, customers, and investors
- Assign at least one founder or senior decision-maker to actively participate
- Have a clear, tech-driven solution addressing real-world challenges
Teams can consist of a maximum of three (3) members.
Duration and Rewards of WEMA Bank Hackathon Hackaholics Program
i. ₦200 Million Cash Prizes & Funding
Winning teams stand a chance to receive cash rewards totaling up to ₦200 million, providing capital to refine, launch, and scale their solutions.
ii. Mentorship from Industry Experts
Participants gain access to top professionals in banking, fintech, and technology, receiving guidance on:
- Product-market fit
- Business models
- Regulatory compliance
- Scaling strategies
iii. Access to Bank APIs & Tech Tools
Build and test solutions using Wema Bank’s APIs and digital infrastructure, giving you real enterprise-level exposure.
iv. Recognition & National Exposure
Finalists present their solutions to industry leaders, investors, and decision-makers, increasing visibility and credibility.
v. Internship & Job Opportunities
Outstanding participants may receive internship placements or employment opportunities with Wema Bank’s innovation and technology teams.
vi. Career & Networking Opportunities
Connect with:
- Tech founders
- Investors
- Startup mentors
- Financial institutions
Program Structure of WEMA Bank Hackathon Hackaholics
Stage 1: Application Phase
Developers, designers, and innovators submit applications detailing:
- Their solution idea
- Problem statement
- Team details
Stage 2: Regional Preliminaries
Shortlisted teams compete across different regions while refining their ideas under expert mentorship.
Stage 3: Final Day Demo
Top teams pitch their solutions to a panel of:
- Bank executives
- Fintech leaders
- Technology experts
Stage 4: Grand Finale
Winning teams receive:
- Cash prizes
- Funding
- Long-term mentorship
- Potential collaboration opportunities with Wema Bank
How to Apply for WEMA Bank Hackathon Hackaholics Program 2026 (Step-by-Step)
Follow these steps carefully to submit a successful application:
- Visit the official Hackaholics website
- Click “Register Now”
- Fill in your solution details
- Add your team members’ information (maximum of 3)
- Review your application carefully
- Submit and await confirmation via email
Early application is strongly advised, as the program is highly competitive.
Who Should Apply for This Program?
The WEMA Bank Hackathon Hackaholics Program is ideal for:
- Software developers with innovative ideas
- Early-stage startup founders
- Fintech and digital banking innovators
- UI/UX designers and product managers
- Tech-enabled SMEs looking to scale
- Students and recent graduates with viable tech solutions
If you are passionate about technology, innovation, and problem-solving, this program is for you.
Why This Program Is Highly Competitive
- Massive ₦200 million prize pool
- Backing from a top Nigerian bank
- Limited slots for finalists
- High interest from Nigeria’s tech ecosystem
- Opportunity for real funding and partnerships
Only solutions with clear value propositions, scalability, and execution potential stand out.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting vague or unclear solution ideas
- Ignoring scalability and market demand
- Failing to assign a committed team leader
- Missing application details or deadlines
- Overcomplicating the solution without real-world relevance
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Selection
- Clearly define the problem you are solving
- Show how your solution aligns with banking or digital transformation
- Demonstrate market potential and scalability
- Highlight your team’s skills and experience
- Prepare a concise but compelling pitch
Is the WEMA Bank Hackathon Worth It?
Absolutely.
Even if you do not win the top prize, participants gain:
- Mentorship
- Industry exposure
- Valuable feedback
- Networking opportunities
- Career and funding prospects
For innovators and startups in Nigeria, Hackaholics is one of the most valuable hackathons available.
FAQs
1. Is the Hackaholics Program only for developers?
No. Designers, founders, and innovators are also encouraged to apply.
2. Can students apply?
Yes, students with strong and viable solutions are eligible.
3. Is there an application fee?
No, the program is free to apply.
4. Do I need a registered company?
Not necessarily. Early-stage teams and individuals can apply.
5. Can I apply as an individual?
Yes, but teams of up to three members are allowed.
Conclusion
The WEMA Bank Hackathon Hackaholics Program 2026 is more than a competition—it is a gateway to funding, mentorship, and long-term growth in Nigeria’s technology ecosystem.
If you have a powerful idea, the skills to execute it, and the ambition to scale, this is your chance to turn innovation into impact.
Apply early, prepare thoroughly, and take advantage of this once-in-a-year opportunity.
Deadline: Not Specified
