Applications are open for the Ecobank InnovateX Program 2026, a nationwide innovation challenge powered by Blaze by Ecobank.
The competition gives young Nigerian students an opportunity to develop solutions to real problems in finance, technology, business, education, and society. Participants will compete in teams of four, receive mentorship, pitch their ideas, and compete for ₦16 million in total prizes.
The first-place team will win ₦5 million.
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About Ecobank InnovateX Program
The Ecobank InnovateX Program brings together students, entrepreneurs, innovators, and young builders with practical ideas.
Participants will receive:
- Mentorship from industry experts
- Innovation and pitching experience
- Bootcamps and practical learning
- Regional pitching opportunities
- Access to the Ecobank innovation ecosystem
- Internship and professional opportunities
- Financial prizes for top teams
The Ecobank InnovateX challenge is powered by Blaze by Ecobank, an initiative focused on connecting young people with financial services, innovation, and development opportunities.
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Who Can Apply?
The programme is open to Nigerian tertiary students who meet the stated requirements.
Applicants should:
- Be students of a Nigerian tertiary institution
- Be between 16 and 25 years old
- Be Nigerian citizens
- Have a valid school ID
- Form a team of four
- Have an innovative project idea
- Maintain an active Blaze account
- Select one competition track
The programme page also mentions young entrepreneurs aged 16 to 30, but the specific competition criteria state 16 to 25 for tertiary-student applicants.
Ecobank InnovateX Competition Tracks
Track A: Inclusive Finance
This track focuses on improving financial services.
Areas include:
- Youth credit solutions
- Fraud detection
- Financial inclusion
- Payment innovation
- Gaming and loyalty
- Customer experience
Track B: Creative Economy
This track focuses on digital, creative, and commercial solutions.
Areas include:
- Education
- Entertainment and creator economy
- Service hubs
- Social innovation
- E-commerce
- Transport and logistics
Choose the track that best matches your project.
Ecobank InnovateX Program Prizes
The top five teams will receive:
- 1st Place: ₦5,000,000
- 2nd Place: ₦4,000,000
- 3rd Place: ₦3,500,000
- 4th Place: ₦2,500,000
- 5th Place: ₦1,000,000
Total prize money: ₦16 million.
Other Benefits
Beyond the cash prizes, successful participants may receive:
- Mentorship from industry professionals
- Internship opportunities with Ecobank
- NYSC placement opportunities
- Visibility to the Ecobank Innovation Team
- InnovateX ambassador kits
- Free debit cards
- Networking opportunities
- Practical pitching experience
Regional Selection Locations
Shortlisted teams will pitch their ideas through regional activations or virtual sessions.
Expected physical locations include:
- Lagos: Yaba College of Technology, YABATECH
- South East/South South: University of Port Harcourt
- FCT/North: University of Abuja
Application Process Ecobank InnovateX Program
Follow these steps:
- Form a team of four members.
- Open and maintain an active Blaze account.
- Choose either Inclusive Finance or Creative Economy.
- Complete the Ecobank InnovateX online registration.
- Submit your project idea before the application deadline.
- Wait for screening and shortlisting.
Successful teams will advance through the selection stages toward the grand finale.
Ecobank InnovateX Grand Finale
The grand finale is scheduled for October 30, 2026
Applicants should follow official Ecobank and Blaze by Ecobank updates for changes to the competition schedule.
