By Fatima Ndagi
The South East Development Commission (SEDC) has shortlisted 210 startups to advance to the next stage of its South-East Venture Capital Programme, following a competitive selection process that drew over 1,200 applications across the region.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the commission said the selected ventures reflect a growing wave of entrepreneurship and innovation in the South-East, increasingly positioning the region as an emerging hub for technology-driven enterprise.
According to the breakdown, 128 startups were admitted into the Incubator Track, while 82 qualified for the Accelerator Track, representing a mix of early-stage ideas and more developed, revenue-seeking businesses.
SEDC described the development as a significant milestone in its effort to identify and support scalable startups capable of driving economic transformation.
“This marks an important step in building a strong pipeline of investable businesses in the South-East,” the commission said. “The quality and volume of applications reflect a shift toward innovation-led solutions and growing entrepreneurial confidence.”
The commission explained that the selection process was designed to ensure transparency and merit-based evaluation. Applicants were first screened for eligibility, including verifiable ties to the South-East, technological relevance, and compliance with application requirements.
Further assessment focused on problem-solution fit, execution capacity, market potential, and innovation strength. For advanced startups, traction and revenue performance were prioritised, while early-stage ventures were evaluated based on validation and evidence of market demand.
SEDC said the shortlisted startups demonstrated strong concepts, execution ability, and clear scalability potential.
“These startups represent the future of enterprise in the South-East,” the statement added.
As part of the next phase, the startups will undergo video pitch assessments to further evaluate leadership strength, strategic direction, and readiness to scale.
The programme will culminate in a grand finale scheduled for May 25, 2026, where finalists will pitch before investors, policymakers, and industry leaders. An investment ceremony is expected the following day, May 26, where successful startups will secure funding and enter a structured support phase.
SEDC reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the regional innovation ecosystem through access to capital, mentorship, and market opportunities.
It also acknowledged support from ecosystem partners including Genesys Tech Hub, Startup South, and The Garage, which assisted in ensuring a credible evaluation process.
Established by the Federal Government, the commission is tasked with addressing infrastructure deficits, economic challenges, and post-conflict recovery in the South-East, while also promoting private sector-led growth.
The venture capital programme is expected to help bridge long-standing financing gaps for startups and strengthen the region’s participation in Nigeria’s expanding digital economy.
