By Christiana Ekpa
The South East Development Commission (SEDC) has announced the progression of 210 startups to the next stage of its South East Venture Capital Programme (SEVCP), following the conclusion of the first phase of its pitch competition.
The startups were selected from over 1,200 applications received across the South-East region, with 128 advancing under the Incubator Track and 82 under the Accelerator Track.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Commission described the development as a major milestone in its drive to identify, support, and scale technology-driven enterprises within the region.
According to SEDC, the selection process was designed to ensure fairness and alignment with programme objectives, beginning with eligibility screening based on verified ties to the South-East, presence of technology-driven solutions, and compliance with application requirements.
It explained that successful applicants were further assessed on problem-solution fit, execution capacity, market opportunity, and use of technology, while more mature startups were evaluated based on traction and revenue performance. Early-stage ventures, it added, were assessed on validation and emerging demand indicators.
“The startups advancing have demonstrated clarity of thought, measurable progress, and strong potential for scale,” the Commission stated.
The next phase of the competition will involve video pitch assessments aimed at evaluating founder capability, strategic thinking, and execution readiness.
SEDC further announced that the programme will culminate in a grand finale scheduled for May 25, 2026, where selected startups will pitch before investors, policymakers, and industry stakeholders.
This will be followed by an investment ceremony on May 26, 2026, during which successful startups will receive funding and transition into structured support under the programme.
Reaffirming its commitment to regional innovation, the Commission said the initiative is part of broader efforts to strengthen the South-East startup ecosystem and create sustainable pathways for business growth and investment attraction.
SEDC also commended applicants and ecosystem partners, including Genesys Tech Hub, Startup South, and The Garage, for their role in ensuring a credible evaluation process.
“The work continues,” the statement added.
The South East Development Commission is a federal statutory body mandated to drive economic development, infrastructure growth, and regional transformation across Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo States.
The statement was signed by Rt. Hon. Stanley Ohajuruka, Executive Director, Finance, and Chairman of the South East Venture Capital Programme.
