Introduction: NCC Talent Hunt Research Hackathon 2023
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is hosting the third edition of the Talent Hunt Research through Hackathon. This event underscores NCC’s commitment to achieving its Strategic Vision Plan for 2023-2025. The plan aims to nurture cutting-edge technologies, promote local content, and drive sustainable economic growth within Nigeria.
Inviting Tech Hubs and Enterprises
Engaging Tech Innovators Nationwide
The NCC has extended invitations to Tech Hubs and Innovation-Driven Enterprises (IDEs) across Nigeria. They are encouraged to participate in the Talent Hunt Research by submitting innovative startup ideas and solutions.
Three Key Themes for the Hackathon
Focused Themes for Innovation
In a statement by the Director of Public Affairs at NCC, Reuben Muoka, the Hackathon will center around three key themes:
- Blockchain-Enabled Data Protection Solutions for Regulatory Compliance
- Assistive Technology Solutions for the Elderly and People with Disabilities
- Technology Solutions for Renewable Energy in Rural Areas
Promoting Local Innovation
Empowering Local Talent
Muoka explained that this initiative harnesses emerging digital technologies to foster local innovation and content creation within the telecommunications sector. It aims to contribute significantly to economic and social progress in Nigeria. Contestants will have the opportunity to transform groundbreaking ideas into tangible hardware and software solutions, addressing industry and societal challenges.
Incentives for Innovation
Rewards for Excellence
Moreover, the top three solutions, one from each thematic area, will be granted N10 million each to further develop their solutions.
Eligibility Criteria
Requirements for Participation
To be eligible, participants must meet specific criteria, including:
- Providing a certificate of registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC)
- Not having received prior support from NCC
- Ensuring clear alignment with one of the three thematic areas
- Presenting a well-defined problem statement, a proposed solution, and a deployment roadmap
Additional Requirements
Comprehensive Submission Details
Other crucial prerequisites include presenting a proof of concept, asserting ownership of intellectual property, completing prototype development within six months of grant receipt, and outlining a detailed commercialization plan.
Submission Format and Process
Structured Submission Format
The Commission has outlined a structured Entry Submission format. It includes ideation, Minimum Viable Product (MVP), solution details, Current Sweat Equity Investment, Product-Market Fit status, Verifiable Go-to-Market status, Growth Feasibility Assurances, Maturity Model, Timeliness, and existing time: Disaster Recovery, where applicable.
Online Application
Navigating the Submission Process
NCC emphasizes that all applications must be made online and follow the stipulated entry format. Importantly, participating in the competition incurs no financial cost, and the Commission retains full control and ownership of the intellectual property developed through the process.
Submission Requirements
What You Need to Provide
Furthermore, entries must be submitted by a Tech Hub or Innovation-Driven Enterprise that can demonstrate a relationship with the Start-up or solution being entered. Submission packages should also include a 4-page Executive summary of the project concept, a 3-5 minute video showcasing the pilot project, names, ages, contact details, passport photos, and profiles of all team members, along with the website (if available) and an E-mail address of the applicant.
Application Deadline
Mark Your Calendar
The Commission concludes by noting that it has run an advertorial on the Hackathon for three weeks. It requests all those within the startups ecosystem to be aware that the application deadline is Friday, 22nd September 2023.
In Closing
Seize the Opportunity
The NCC Talent Hunt Research Hackathon 2023 presents an exciting opportunity for innovators to contribute to the growth and development of Nigeria’s telecommunications sector while securing substantial funding for their groundbreaking solutions. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this dynamic event. Apply now!
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