By Modupe Gbadeyanka
Young Nigerians, particularly students, innovators, entrepreneurs, and creatives aged 16 to 25, who intend to register for Ecobank Nigeria’s flagship youth innovation challenge, InnovateX 2026, have till Friday, October 30, to do the needful via www.innovatex.africa.
The programme has N20 million up for grabs in prizes, mentorship, business development support, and access to industry experts.
The competition is open to young Nigerians working on innovative projects in technology, engineering, science, product design, content creation, digital media, entertainment, fashion, and other creative disciplines.
Business Post learned that the process comprises six steps, with the first being the formation of a four-person team.
The second step involves opening and maintaining an active Blaze account. The third is selecting the competition track, before moving to the completion of the online InnovateX registration form, and then to the submission of the project idea within the application window, and lastly awaiting the screening and shortlisting.
Powered by Blaze by Ecobank in partnership with Verve, InnovateX 2026 is designed to identify and support the next generation of innovators and creators developing solutions across inclusive finance, as well as the creative economy.
Beyond the financial support, participants will benefit from an intensive innovation journey featuring hybrid bootcamps, expert-led workshops, mentorship sessions, networking opportunities, and a grand finale pitch competition where finalists will showcase their ideas before a panel of industry leaders and investors.
“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.
“We encourage students, innovators, tech enthusiasts, creators, and entrepreneurs across the country to seize this opportunity and take their ambitions to the next level,” the Head of Products and Analytics at Ecobank Nigeria, Mr Victor Yalokwu, said.
“The future belongs to young people who are willing to innovate, solve problems, and create value. InnovateX is designed to equip participants with the knowledge, mentorship, exposure, and resources they need to succeed in today’s highly competitive and technology-driven world,” he added.
Mr Yalokwu further explained that InnovateX is not just about rewarding great ideas, but also about building confidence, nurturing talent, and connecting young people to opportunities that can help them grow personally and professionally.
“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,” the banker stated.
