NITDA Opens DEAP Pilot Applications for Nigerian Exporters Ahead of May 30 Deadline
Updated
Updated · msmeafricaonline.com · May 25
NITDA Opens DEAP Pilot Applications for Nigerian Exporters Ahead of May 30 Deadline
3 articles · Updated · msmeafricaonline.com · May 25
Summary
May 30 is the deadline for Nigerian startups, SMEs and digital businesses to apply for NITDA’s Digital Export Acceleration Programme pilot cohort, aimed at firms ready to expand beyond the local market.
The programme will provide market-entry advisory, export-readiness support, cross-border trade guidance, investor-readiness coaching, and mentorship to help businesses navigate compliance and international expansion.
NITDA is targeting a limited number of legally registered Nigerian businesses that have operated for at least 2 years, show market traction, and can demonstrate export or regional scaling potential.
Priority sectors include technology, fintech, edtech, healthtech, agribusiness, renewable energy, manufacturing, logistics, creative industries and fashion, with the initiative tied to AfCFTA opportunities and Nigeria’s broader digital-economy push.
With AfCFTA's market now open, can Nigerian startups overcome local barriers to achieve true continental dominance?
As African AI startups rise, can they overcome the continent's massive data and language gap to compete globally?
Amidst a funding boom, are Africa's new venture programs building sustainable ecosystems or just a series of isolated startup successes?
Unlocking Global Markets: How NITDA’s DEAP Pilot Empowers Nigerian Businesses for Digital Export Success
Overview
The Digital Export Acceleration Programme (DEAP) pilot, launched by NITDA, ONDI, and the Digital Trade Desk, offers Nigerian businesses an immediate and significant opportunity to access global markets. With the application window closing on May 30, 2026, there is an urgent need for interested businesses to act quickly. DEAP is strategically designed to boost Nigeria’s digital economy and enhance the global competitiveness of local enterprises by addressing opportunities in intra-African trade and digital exports. Through this program, startups and SMEs can gain invaluable access to international markets, positioning themselves for growth and investment.