To inspire a new generation of agri-preneurs across Nigeria, the Lagos State Government has launched the 2025 edition of its agricultural hackathon — Lagos Agrithon — with a ₦150 million grant pool to support budding agripreneurs.
The initiative is designed to address food insecurity while empowering young innovators to create scalable, tech-driven solutions within the agricultural sector. At least 35 agrifood startups are expected to benefit from this year’s competition, which builds on the success of the 2024 edition where 26 startups received funding and mentoring.
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Youth Innovation Meets Sustainable Agriculture
Speaking at the launch, Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Abisola Olusanya, stressed the urgent need for innovation in Lagos’s food value chain. With over 70% of food consumed in Lagos imported from other states or countries, and the population projected to exceed 30 million by 2035, the state must act swiftly to secure its food future.
Olusanya described the Agrithon as more than just a grant competition—it’s a movement to develop homegrown solutions to food challenges through innovation, collaboration, and investment. She emphasized that the goal is not just to support agribusinesses but to reshape the food ecosystem with the help of young, driven minds.
Who Can Apply and What to Expect
The Agrithon is open to individuals aged 18 to 40 who run early-stage startups (0–5 years) in agriculture or food systems and operate within or impact Lagos State. Applicants must be registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and enrolled in the Lagos State Residents Registration Agency (LASRRA).
Areas of focus include precision farming, food processing, logistics, agri-fintech, post-harvest storage, digital agriculture, and climate-resilient farming practices. Selected applicants will benefit from mentorship, capacity-building, and investor exposure at the Agrinnovation Summit 2.0 grand finale.
To apply, interested participants must submit an online form and a pitch deck outlining their problem, solution, and intended impact.
This initiative is a powerful opportunity for Nigeria’s next generation of agripreneurs to get the support they need to scale. It’s also a call to action for investors, stakeholders, and development partners to support youth-led innovation in building a more secure, resilient food future.
