Ecobank Deepens Support for Youth Innovation With N20m InnovateX Award

Ecobank Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to driving youth-led innovation across Africa through its flagship InnovateX challenge, awarding N20 million to six emerging Nigerian innovators at the 2025 grand finale in Lagos.

The competition brought together 20 finalists in science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM) and creative arts to pitch transformative ideas to a panel of experts, investors, and industry leaders.
Speaking at the finale, Ecobank’s executive director of Commercial and Consumer Banking, Kola Adeleke, said InnovateX reflects the bank’s vision to shape the future of African enterprise by equipping young innovators with practical tools, mentorship, and market access.

“This is more than just a competition; it is a comprehensive development platform offering hybrid bootcamps, expert-led workshops, mentorship, international exposure, and opportunities to pitch to key stakeholders,” he stated.

At the final held at the Ecobank Pan African Centre in Lagos, Bukola Luka, Afrimetrics, Neighbourly, and Feedipay emerged as the top three winners in the STEM category, with N3 million, N2 million, and N1 million prizes, respectively.

In the Creative category, ISIO; Leadforge and Zulana emerged top winners with N3 million, N2 million and N1 million prizes respectively. The six top winners emerged from 20 top contenders who participated in the finals.

Chief Executive Officer of Heave Ventures, Abiodun Lawal, said the initiative demonstrates that innovation goes beyond technology to include creative problem-solving and people-driven solutions. “Every idea shared on stage reminded us why this initiative matters, to give young talent the resources and belief they need to shape the future,” he said.

The programme, which coincided with International Youth Day, showcased solutions ranging from tech applications addressing real-life challenges to fashion and art brands redefining creative industries in Nigeria.