How to Apply for the Rise Networks #AI4Elections Hackathon
Rise Networks, in collaboration with Nithub and other development and technology partners, has opened applications for the #AI4Elections Hackathon 2026.
The hackathon invites artificial intelligence innovators, software developers, researchers, students, entrepreneurs and other professionals to develop technology-driven solutions that can improve Nigeria’s electoral processes.
The initiative focuses on using Artificial Intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies to promote credible, transparent, inclusive and people-centred elections. Participants stand a chance to win a share of the ₦10 million prize pool, alongside other technology and innovation support opportunities.
Opportunity Snapshot
- Programme: #AI4Elections Hackathon 2026
- Organiser: Rise Networks
- Collaborating Partner: Nithub and other development and technology partners
- Location: Nigeria
- Category: Hackathon | Artificial Intelligence | Innovation
- Focus Area: Artificial Intelligence and Electoral Innovation
- Prize Pool: ₦10,000,000
- Application Opens: 22 October 2026
- Application Deadline: 12 November 2026, 11:59 PM WAT
- Eligible Applicants: Students, software developers, researchers, entrepreneurs, young professionals, electoral experts and academics
- Application Method: Online application
What Is the #AI4Elections Hackathon?
The #AI4Elections Hackathon is an innovation initiative organised by Rise Networks in collaboration with Nithub and other development and technology partners.
The initiative aims to bring together technology professionals, researchers, students and innovators to develop Artificial Intelligence-powered solutions to electoral challenges in Nigeria.
Beyond the hackathon, the initiative also includes an Elections Development Hub and an Electoral Community of Practice to support innovation and collaboration around electoral development.
Is the #AI4Elections Hackathon Right for You?
You should consider applying if you:
- Are a student interested in Artificial Intelligence and technology.
- Are a software developer with an interest in electoral innovation.
- Are a researcher interested in AI-powered solutions.
- Are an entrepreneur developing technology-driven solutions.
- Are a young professional interested in electoral development.
- Are an electoral expert interested in improving electoral processes.
- Are an academic interested in Artificial Intelligence and civic technology.
- Have innovative ideas that can address challenges affecting elections in Nigeria.
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You may not be a suitable applicant if you:
- Have no interest in Artificial Intelligence, technology or electoral innovation.
- Cannot contribute to developing or supporting solutions within the hackathon’s focus areas.
What Will You Work On During the Hackathon?
Participants are invited to develop innovative AI-powered solutions across five major focus areas.
1. AI and Trustworthy Electoral Information
Developing technology solutions that improve access to accurate, reliable and trustworthy electoral information.
2. Electoral Data Analysis, Operational Insights and Decision Support
Using Artificial Intelligence and data analytics to improve electoral planning, operational processes and decision-making.
3. Inclusive and Multilingual Electoral/Civic Technology
Building accessible and multilingual technology solutions that encourage inclusive electoral participation and civic engagement.
4. Electoral Cybersecurity and Resilience
Developing technology solutions to strengthen electoral cybersecurity and protect electoral systems against digital threats.
5. Election Observation and Citizen Accountability
Using technology to support election monitoring, transparency, citizen participation and electoral accountability.
Additional Innovation Area: Climate Resilience and Environmental Innovation
Climate resilience and environmental innovation are included as an optional cross-cutting area for participants interested in developing solutions that address environmental challenges.
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What Do You Get From the #AI4Elections Hackathon?
Participants and winning innovators stand a chance to receive the following benefits:
Share of the ₦10 Million Prize Pool
Winning innovators stand a chance to receive a share of the ₦10 million prize pool.
Cloud Computing Credits
Selected participants may receive cloud computing credits to support technology development and innovation.
Laptops
Laptops are included among the advertised prizes and benefits.
Technology Tools and Innovation Support
Participants may also access technology tools and other innovation support opportunities.
What You Need Before Applying
Before applying for the #AI4Elections Hackathon, interested applicants should prepare:
- Personal information.
- Information about their educational or professional background.
- Details of their technical skills and relevant experience, where applicable.
- Information about their proposed innovation or solution, where required.
- Any additional information or documents requested on the application portal.
Applicants should review the official application requirements to confirm the information needed for submission.
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How to Apply for the #AI4Elections Hackathon 2026
Interested applicants should follow these steps:
- Visit the official #AI4Elections Hackathon platform using the link below.
- Read the programme information and application requirements.
- Identify the focus area that matches your skills or proposed innovation.
- Access the online application portal.
- Complete the application form with the required information.
- Review your application before submission.
- Submit your application before the deadline.
Apply here
Application Deadline: 12 November 2026, 11:59 PM WAT.
How to Make Your Hackathon Application Stand Out
Applicants should clearly explain their interest in Artificial Intelligence, technology and electoral innovation.
If the application requests details of a proposed solution, ensure that your idea addresses a specific electoral challenge and explains how technology can help solve it.
Applicants with relevant technical skills, research experience or previous innovation projects should provide accurate details where requested.
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Important Things to Know Before Applying
- The hackathon is organised by Rise Networks in collaboration with Nithub and other development and technology partners.
- The total advertised prize pool is ₦10 million.
- The hackathon focuses on five major innovation tracks.
- Climate resilience and environmental innovation are included as an optional cross-cutting area.
- Laptops, cloud computing credits and technology tools are among the advertised benefits.
- The application period runs from 22 October to 12 November 2026.
- Applications close at 11:59 PM WAT on 12 November 2026.
- Applicants should consult the official platform for application instructions and further programme details.
Application Deadline and Timeline
The application timeline is as follows:
- Application Opening Date: 22 October 2026
- Application Closing Date: 12 November 2026
- Closing Time: 11:59 PM West Africa Time (WAT)
Interested applicants should complete their applications before the closing date.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the #AI4Elections Hackathon?
The #AI4Elections Hackathon is an innovation initiative that brings together technology innovators, developers, researchers and other professionals to develop AI-powered solutions for improving electoral processes in Nigeria.
Who organises the #AI4Elections Hackathon 2026?
The hackathon is organised by Rise Networks in collaboration with Nithub and other development and technology partners.
Who can apply for the #AI4Elections Hackathon?
Students, software developers, researchers, entrepreneurs, young professionals, electoral experts and academics are eligible to apply.
How much is the #AI4Elections Hackathon prize pool?
The hackathon has an advertised total prize pool of ₦10 million.
What are the focus areas of the hackathon?
The five major focus areas are trustworthy electoral information, electoral data analysis and decision support, inclusive and multilingual electoral technology, electoral cybersecurity and resilience, and election observation and citizen accountability.
Does the hackathon offer benefits apart from cash prizes?
Yes. Advertised benefits include cloud computing credits, laptops, technology tools and other innovation support opportunities.
When does the #AI4Elections Hackathon application close?
Applications close on 12 November 2026 at 11:59 PM WAT.
How can I apply for the #AI4Elections Hackathon?
Interested applicants should visit the official #AI4Elections platform to access programme information and submit their applications.
Conclusion
The Rise Networks #AI4Elections Hackathon 2026 provides an opportunity for Nigerian technology innovators, students, researchers and professionals to develop Artificial Intelligence-powered solutions for improving electoral processes.
With a ₦10 million prize pool, cloud computing credits, laptops and other innovation support opportunities, the initiative is worth considering for individuals interested in AI and electoral innovation.
Interested applicants should submit their applications before 12 November 2026 at 11:59 PM WAT.