The South East Development Commission has shortlisted 50 startup ventures for the grand finale of its inaugural South East Venture Capital Program (SEVCP), marking a significant step towards strengthening entrepreneurship and investment opportunities in the region.
The selected startups by SEDC emerged from over 1,200 applications submitted by technology-enabled ventures across the South East, following a rigorous multi-stage screening and evaluation process conducted under the program’s Accelerator and Incubation tracks.
According to the Commission, the finalists will participate in an intensive bootcamp focused on pitch-readiness and investment preparedness ahead of the competition’s Finals Day scheduled for May 25, 2026, at the International Conference Center in Enugu.
During the finale, the startups will present their business ideas before a panel of investors, venture capital experts, and industry professionals, with 30 ventures expected to secure structured investment commitments and admission into a post-investment incubation and acceleration programme.
SEDC described the initiative as part of broader efforts to build a sustainable venture capital ecosystem in the South East by connecting emerging businesses with investors, institutional partners, and development finance stakeholders.
The Commission noted that the programme aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises innovative financing mechanisms aimed at supporting local startups and boosting investor confidence in Nigeria’s economy.
An Investment Ceremony is also scheduled for May 26, where successful ventures will formally receive investment support in the presence of public officials, financing partners, and stakeholders from Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem.
SEDC said the programme is designed to drive inclusive economic growth, encourage innovation, and unlock private capital across Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo states.
The Commission further called on entrepreneurs, investors, corporate organisations, academic institutions, and members of the public to participate in the event, describing it as a major platform for regional economic transformation and startup development.
