• InnovateX 2026 targets Nigerians aged 16–25 with bold ideas in STEM, technology and creative industries
Ecobank Nigeria has thrown its doors open to a new generation of young innovators, entrepreneurs and creatives, inviting Nigerians aged 16 to 25 to apply for InnovateX 2026, its flagship youth innovation challenge with ₦20 million in prize money up for grabs.
The initiative, powered by Blaze by Ecobank in partnership with Verve, is designed to discover, nurture and empower young Nigerians developing innovative solutions in inclusive finance, technology and the creative economy.
Beyond the financial rewards, successful participants will embark on an intensive innovation journey featuring hybrid bootcamps, expert-led workshops, mentorship sessions, networking opportunities and a grand-finale pitch competition.
At the finale, shortlisted participants will have the opportunity to present their ideas before a panel of industry leaders and investors, potentially opening doors to partnerships, investment and further business development.
InnovateX 2026 is open to young Nigerians working on projects spanning technology, engineering, science, product design, content creation, digital media, entertainment, fashion and other creative disciplines.
Speaking on the initiative, Victor Yalokwu, Head, Products & Analytics, Ecobank Nigeria, said the programme was created to help young Nigerians transform their creativity and ideas into practical solutions and sustainable ventures.
“Nigeria is blessed with an abundance of young talent, creativity, and entrepreneurial energy. Through InnovateX, we are providing a platform for young people to transform bold ideas into impactful solutions and sustainable businesses.”
Yalokwu urged students, innovators, technology enthusiasts, creators and entrepreneurs across the country to take advantage of the opportunity and move their ambitions to the next level.
He added that the programme would provide participants with the knowledge, mentorship, exposure and resources required to thrive in an increasingly competitive and technology-driven economy.
According to him, InnovateX goes beyond rewarding promising ideas, as it is also aimed at building confidence, nurturing talent and connecting young Nigerians with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
“Whether you are developing a tech solution, building a creative brand, or working on an innovation that can improve lives, InnovateX provides a valuable platform to showcase your potential and accelerate your journey towards success,” he said.
Driving Youth Empowerment Through Blaze
The InnovateX initiative forms part of Ecobank Nigeria’s broader commitment to youth empowerment and financial inclusion.
Through its youth-focused Blaze Account, the bank provides young customers with access to exclusive opportunities, a specially designed debit card, free monthly transfers and participation in initiatives such as InnovateX.
Young Nigerians interested in participating in InnovateX 2026 are encouraged to submit their applications through InnovateX Africa before the registration deadline.
With ₦20 million in prizes, alongside mentorship, skills development, industry exposure and recognition, InnovateX 2026 is positioning itself as a major platform for discovering and accelerating Nigeria’s next generation of innovators and creative entrepreneurs.
About Ecobank Nigeria
Ecobank Nigeria is a member of the Ecobank Group, a pan-African banking group with operations across 33 African countries and international offices in London, Paris, Beijing and Dubai.
With more than 250 branches, approximately 50,000 agency banking locations and extensive digital platforms, Ecobank provides accessible and affordable banking services while supporting trade and economic integration across Africa, particularly through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).