Ecobank InnovateX Challenge empowers young Nigerians with ₦20 million in prizes, fueling creativity and economic impact across STEM and creative sectors

The Ecobank InnovateX Challenge has been hailed as a game-changer for Nigerian youth, providing a platform for turning passions into solutions with tangible economic benefits.

Also read: Leadway Ecobank Bancassurance Partnership Expands Insurance Access

At the grand finale held at the Ecobank Pan African Centre (EPAC) in Lagos, Kola Adeleke, Ecobank Nigeria’s Executive Director for Commercial and Consumer Banking, described the initiative as a flagship programme for nurturing future changemakers and fostering national growth.

“InnovateX fits our vision perfectly,” Adeleke said. “We are committed to investing in the future of our youth and shaping a brighter tomorrow for Nigeria. Our digital tools allow them to manage their finances anytime, anywhere, particularly via mobile — their primary engagement channel.”

Launched in partnership with Heave Ventures, the challenge targets Nigerians aged 16 to 25 in the Creative and STEM sectors, offering them the chance to showcase bold, transformative ideas. After weeks of applications, bootcamps, and public voting, 18 finalists pitched their projects with remarkable skill.

A total of ₦20 million in cash prizes was awarded. In the Creative category, ISIO won the ₦5 million top prize, Leadforge received ₦2 million, and Zulana earned ₦1 million.

In STEM, Afrimetrics took the ₦5 million first prize, Neighborly secured ₦2 million, and Feedipay claimed ₦1 million. Stipple Care and Semita AI each received ₦500,000, while ten others went home with ₦300,000 each.

Heave Ventures CEO Abiodun Lawal praised the challenge as more than a competition, saying it “equips young people with resources, visibility, and the belief that their ideas can change the world.”

Contestants expressed gratitude for the opportunity, with Afrimetrics CEO Micah Erumaka noting, “Ecobank has shown it genuinely cares about Nigerian youth. This fund will help me expand my business and create jobs.”

Also read: Ecobank’s Profit Before Tax Jumps 23% Amid Tough Market Conditions

Beyond the Ecobank InnovateX Challenge, the bank continues to invest in youth empowerment, partnering with the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) to train 16,000 youths in agricultural wealth creation and collaborating with organisations such as EStars, NYSC, Code 14 Labs, Learntor, AFC, and Soto Gallery to drive opportunities across multiple sectors.