How PHTechExpo 2025 is Powering Rivers State’s Tech Growth

In an era where technology is the driving force behind economic growth and transformation, PHTechExpo 2025 emerged as a landmark gathering for innovators, entrepreneurs, investors, and tech enthusiasts in Rivers State and the Niger Delta.

PHTechExpo is aimed at growing and strengthening the tech ecosystem in Rivers State and the Niger Delta by connecting innovators, startups, and industry experts with investors, skills training, and exposure, ultimately turning ideas into viable, fundable products.

PHTechExpo exists to turn local tech dreams into investable realities.

The two-day technology expo, held on June 5–6, 2025, brought together industry experts, startup founders, investors, and key stakeholders from across Nigeria, creating a powerful platform for networking, knowledge-sharing, and opportunity creation.

Organized under the visionary leadership of Honourable Enemi Alabo George and powered by Tech Nexus in partnership with the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), the event was more than just a showcase; it was a catalyst for growth and innovation in the region’s tech ecosystem.

A Convergence of Experts and Opportunities

PHTechExpo wasn’t just about flashy tech showcases. It was about bringing the right people into the same room. From professionals, entrepreneurs, innovators, and investors, to exchange ideas, share insights, and explore collaborations.

The expo highlighted advancements across diverse domains, including:

• Artificial Intelligence
• Blockchain
• Cybersecurity
• Data Science
• Internet of Things (IoT)
• Cloud Computing

Through keynote speeches, panel discussions, and workshops, participants gained practical knowledge, actionable strategies, and industry foresight to help them thrive in today’s rapidly evolving digital economy.

Empowering Startups Through Pitch Sessions in PHTechExpo 2025

One of the biggest highlights of PHTechExpo 2025 was its startup pitching session, which was designed to bridge the gap between promising innovators and potential investors.

Out of 100 registered startups, 15 had the opportunity to pitch their solutions to a panel of judges. From that group, 8 advanced to the exclusive “Deal Room”, where they met directly with investors interested in funding their products.

This direct access to capital and mentorship is exactly the type of intervention that can accelerate the growth of early-stage ventures, transforming bright ideas into scalable businesses.

The Hackathon: Turning Ideas into Reality

Following the expo, attention shifted to a 4-day hackathon and Pitch session, co-ordinated and supervised by  Harvoxx Tech Hub, which was a high-energy environment where creativity met execution.

The first three days entailed training participants on product pitching and building within a hackathon setting. This ensured that participants not only built functional solutions but also understood how to present them effectively to investors and stakeholders.

On the final day, 15 out of 150 registered participants pitched their projects to a panel of judges. One standout winner emerged, walking away with a ₦5 million grand prize to further develop their solution.

The hackathon’s winning project, NoteNest, is an AI-powered solution that helps students and teachers work better with their study materials. It makes it easier to take notes, keep them organized, and learn in a way that suits each person’s pace and style. The goal is to make learning simpler, more personal, and more effective for everyone.

While NoteNest claimed the top prize, the competition was a showcase of diverse innovation. Notable teams such as Swift Mobility, Akara NG, Solo Stay, Reezer, Equiply, Tiny Tusk, and many others impressed the judges and audience with their creativity, technical execution, and potential for impact. Each of these teams left the event with invaluable exposure, connections, and insights to refine and scale their products.

Why PHTechExpo Matters for the Local Ecosystem

The significance of PHTechExpo goes far beyond the event dates. It is:

• A visibility engine for local innovators and startups, putting Rivers State on the national tech map.
• A bridge to funding, giving entrepreneurs direct access to investors who can accelerate their growth.
• A skill-building platform equipping participants with the tools to thrive in competitive markets.
• A community builder, strengthening the bonds between stakeholders in the Niger Delta’s tech space.

By showcasing local talent, building meaningful connections, and providing concrete investment opportunities, PHTechExpo is laying the groundwork for a more vibrant, self-sustaining tech ecosystem in the region.

The momentum generated by PHTechExpo is expected to inspire more innovators to take the leap into entrepreneurship and encourage more investors to look closely at opportunities in Rivers State. The combination of exposure, funding, mentorship, and skills training positions the local tech sector for significant growth in the years ahead.

As Honourable Enemi Alabo George, the event’s convener, emphasized, “Technology is not just about innovation; it’s about creating opportunities, driving inclusion, and transforming lives.”

PHTechExpo 2025 delivered on that vision, and the impact is just beginning.