Wema Bank's Hackaholics Accelerator Programme 2026: A Game-Changer for Nigerian Startups
The 2026 edition of Wema Bank's Hackaholics Accelerator Programme is a significant step forward in the bank's mission to foster innovation and entrepreneurship in Nigeria. This year's initiative marks a shift from a competition-based model to a more comprehensive business development programme, aiming to propel startups from early traction to sustainable growth.
The selected startups for this cohort are Farmslate, Ploy, Stocmed, Feest (Chao), Varsityscape, MamaAlert, Sane, Cyclex, Kieva, and Loocomo. These 10 startups were chosen from the top-performing finalists of the Hackaholics 6.0 challenge, indicating a high level of potential and market readiness.
According to Moruf Oseni, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Wema Bank, Hackaholics has evolved beyond a mere competition. "Over the past six years, Hackaholics has grown into more than a competition; it has become a platform that reveals the depth of innovation and entrepreneurial potential that exists across Nigeria," he said. This transformation reflects the bank's commitment to supporting founders beyond the ideation stage, into the crucial business-building process.
The programme's focus on mentorship, guidance, and operational support is designed to bridge the gap between early-stage traction and scalable success. Babatunde Mumuni, Chief Transformation Officer of Wema Bank, highlighted the selected startups' strong foundations, stating, "The startups selected for this cohort already have strong foundations, with products already in the market, early traction, and clear growth potential."
Since its inception in 2019, Hackaholics has become a cornerstone of Wema Bank's innovation ecosystem, attracting over 15,000 applicants and supporting the development of numerous digital solutions across Nigeria. The programme has also led to the disbursement of over $400,000 in funding to young innovators, with past participants like Feegor, Myitura, and Bunce achieving notable success in their respective sectors.
The accelerator is supported by Wema Bank's IDEAx Labs, which provides essential partnerships, infrastructure, and access to capital for emerging startups. This comprehensive infrastructure is a testament to the bank's dedication to nurturing the next generation of Nigerian entrepreneurs.
In conclusion, Wema Bank's Hackaholics Accelerator Programme 2026 is a powerful catalyst for Nigerian startups, offering the necessary resources and mentorship to transform early-stage ideas into sustainable businesses. As the programme progresses, it will undoubtedly contribute to the growth of Nigeria's technology and entrepreneurship ecosystem, fostering innovation and driving economic development.
