Ecobank Launches InnovateX Youth Competition to Empower Africa’s Next Generation of Creators and Tech Entrepreneurs

– ₦20 Million Prize Fund Set Aside for Winners

Lagos, Nigeria – July 01, 2025 — Ecobank, the Pan-African bank, in partnership with Heave Ventures, has announced the launch of InnovateX, a competition designed for young talents aged 16–25 in the Creatives and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) sectors. Interested participants are encouraged to apply at www.innovatex.africa. Applications close on July 31, 2025 and top 10 participants will share a prize pool of ₦20,000,000.Speaking at the launch event in Lagos, Bolaji Lawal, Managing Director and Group Executive of Ecobank Nigeria, stated, “InnovateX is Ecobank’s initiative to shape the future of African enterprise. By equipping young creators and innovators with practical tools and opportunities, we empower them to transform their passion into scalable impact.”Lawal encouraged youths to seize the growth opportunities provided by Blaze through InnovateX to learn, gain international exposure, and win prizes. “InnovateX is more than just a competition, it is a development platform offering hybrid bootcamps, expert-led pitching and business workshops, mentorship, international exposure, and a chance to pitch at a high-profile grand finale. The top 10 participants will share a prize pool of ₦20,000,000, alongside recognition and growth opportunities from Ecobank and its partners”. He stated. In line with this campaign, Ecobank is spotlighting its youth-focused product, the Ecobank Blaze Account, designed for digitally savvy young people ready to bank smart and build their future. The Blaze Account is tailored for youth aged 16–25 and comes with exclusive benefits, including:A free, uniquely designed debit cardThree (3) free NIP transfers every monthAutomatic eligibility to participate in InnovateX and other youth-focused programsAccess to EPAC Studio — a creative hub for digital content and productionOpportunity to become a Campus Ambassador Students enrolled in Nigerian tertiary institutions can also apply to become Ecobank Campus Ambassadors, youth brand advocates who promote financial literacy, innovation, and banking inclusion on campus. Ambassadors receive a monthly stipend of ₦50,000, national recognition, leadership experience, and access to exclusive training and career development opportunities. As part of this holistic youth empowerment approach, the Blaze Account serves as a gateway for participants to maximize the InnovateX experience, offering financial, creative, and professional support throughout their journey. Whether you’re a content creator, tech innovator, or aspiring leader, this is your platform to shine. Key Highlights of the InnovateX Challenge:Who can apply? Youth aged 16–25Application deadline: July 31, 2025Where to apply? www.innovatex.africaProgram duration: July 1 – August 12, 2025Two Tracks, One Big Opportunity:Creatives Track: Learn the Business of Creativity — for designers, artists, content creators, and moreSTEM Track: Master the Art of the Pitch — for developers, engineers, and tech innovators Ready to innovate, pitch, and lead? Apply today and secure your future — your way.