The inaugural Pitch Friday brought five emerging tech startups to the stage in Makurdi for an afternoon of pitches, expert feedback, competition, and connection.
On May 8, 2026, BenueTech Foundation hosted the inaugural episode of Pitch Friday at Window on America in Makurdi, Benue State. Five carefully selected tech startups took the stage before an audience of 110 guests, exceeding our target of 100, and competed for real prizes, expert feedback, and a path into acceleration. The event was powered by Maxify Tickets for seamless QR-based guest check-in. While internet connectivity challenges arose during the session, the team responded decisively, with Tersoo Abatyough and Tamen Kuma stepping in as in-person judges to ensure every startup received the quality evaluation they deserved. Winners were announced by Bemdoo Hulugh.
SprintET emerged as the winner of Season 1, Episode 1. All five startups walked away enrolled in Hub 17’s acceleration programme and supported by resources from Maxify Global. Post-event feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with a 4.3 out of 5 overall rating and 100% of respondents saying they would recommend Pitch Friday to others
A look back at the moments, people, and highlights from Pitch Friday Season 1, Episode 1.
Founder: Ernest Msugh Chia
Sector: Developer Infrastructure
SprintET emerged as the overall winner of Pitch Friday Season 1 Episode 1 for its innovative approach to solving operational inefficiencies caused by rigid and outdated software systems.
Founder: Ahile Benedict
Sector: E-commerce / Delivery
NXTDOOR TECHNOLOGIES LTD secured the position of 1st Runner-Up with its innovative local commerce solution that connects users with nearby vendors for fast and reliable delivery services.
Founder: Jackson Patrick Alechenu
Sector: Proptech
LodgeMe emerged as the 2nd Runner Up for its solution addressing the stressful and unreliable process students face when searching for off-campus accommodation.
Founder: Ene Eunice Ogaba
Sector: Healthtech
iDOC eXperience secured the position of 3rd Runner-Up with its innovative healthcare solution focused on improving medical record accessibility and continuity.
Founders: Aondona Precious & Anthony Nder
Sector: Creator Economy
MEMBBA emerged as the 4th Runner-Up with its solution designed to simplify monetization and community management for creators on WhatsApp and Telegram.
Read the official Pitch Friday Season 1, Episode 1 report for the complete event recap, startup profiles, results, feedback, and key takeaways.
BenueTech Foundation is Nigeria’s first tech NGO in Benue State, empowering professionals, founders, and learners of Benue origin through mentorship, programs, and community. From Benue. Built for the world.
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