Ecobank Nigeria and payment card brand Verve have teamed up to launch InnovateX 2026, a youth empowerment initiative offering a ₦20 million grant pool alongside structured mentorship and business development support.
The program targets young Nigerian students, entrepreneurs, creators, and innovators aged 16 to 25 who are building solutions in inclusive finance and the creative economy. Eligible projects span a wide array of disciplines, including technology, engineering, product design, digital media, entertainment, and fashion.
Selected participants will embark on a comprehensive developmental journey featuring hybrid bootcamps, expert-led workshops, networking sessions, and high-level mentorship. The initiative culminates in a grand finale pitch competition, where finalists will present their ideas directly to a panel of top investors and industry leaders.
Highlighting the vision behind the initiative, Victor Yalokwu, Head of Products & Analytics at Ecobank Nigeria, emphasized the country's vast reservoir of youth talent and entrepreneurial energy. He noted that InnovateX aims to help participants convert bold concepts into sustainable, market-ready enterprises by equipping them with critical knowledge, exposure, and industry connections.
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To further reinforce its commitment to young people, Ecobank continues to complement initiatives like InnovateX through its Blaze Account, a dedicated financial product for youth offering zero-cost monthly transfers, exclusive debit card perks, and tailored financial tools.
Information provided by Edfrica is for awareness purposes only and does not constitute a guarantee or endorsement.
