Nigeria’s young innovators are being called to the stage. Blaze by Ecobank, in partnership with Verve, has opened applications for InnovateX 2026, a nationwide youth innovation challenge designed to turn bold ideas into practical solutions with a total prize pool of ₦20 million.
The challenge targets tertiary students and young creators who are ready to solve real problems in inclusive finance and the creative economy. If you have an idea that could improve how people bank, access credit, create content, build businesses, or deliver services, this is your moment.
What is InnovateX 2026?
InnovateX is Ecobank’s flagship youth innovation programme. It goes beyond cash prizes. Selected teams receive intensive support through hybrid bootcamps, expert-led workshops, mentorship sessions, and networking opportunities with industry leaders and investors. The journey culminates in a grand finale pitch competition scheduled for 30 October 2026, where finalists will present their ideas before a panel of judges.
The programme is open to innovative projects spanning technology, engineering, science, product design, digital media, content creation, entertainment, fashion, and other creative fields.
Prize Structure
Top-performing teams will share substantial cash awards:
· 1st Place: ₦5 million
· 2nd Place: ₦4 million
· 3rd Place: ₦3.5 million
· 4th Place: ₦2.5 million
· 5th Place: ₦1 million
Beyond the money, shortlisted participants stand to gain internships, potential NYSC placement opportunities, free debit cards, InnovateX ambassador kits, and valuable exposure to Ecobank’s innovation ecosystem.
Who Can Apply?
Eligibility centres on young Nigerians who are:
· Nigerian citizens
· Aged 16–30
· Currently enrolled in a tertiary institution with a valid school ID
· Able to form a team of four members
Applicants must also open and maintain an active Blaze account (Ecobank’s youth banking product).
Competition Tracks
Teams choose one of two tracks:
- Inclusive Finance – Ideas around youth credit solutions, fraud detection, payments, customer experience, and related financial innovations.
- Creative Economy – Projects in education, entertainment, the creator economy, service hubs, social innovation, e-commerce, transport, logistics, and similar areas.
How the Challenge Works
The process is structured and progressive:
- Form a team of four.
- Open and maintain an active Blaze account.
- Select your preferred track (Inclusive Finance or Creative Economy).
- Complete the online registration form and submit your project idea.
- Participate in screening and shortlisting.
- Pitch at regional activations (or virtually) held at locations including:
· Lagos – YABATECH
· South East/South South – University of Port Harcourt
· FCT/North – University of Abuja - Advance to the grand finale pitch on 30 October 2026.
Why This Matters
Nigeria’s youth are overflowing with creativity and entrepreneurial energy. What many lack is structured support, mentorship, and capital to move ideas from concept to reality. InnovateX aims to close that gap by combining funding with practical development opportunities.
Whether your idea is a fintech tool that helps young people access credit, a creative platform that empowers content creators, or a solution that improves everyday services, the challenge provides a platform to test, refine, and showcase it.
How to Apply
Applications are open, and the timeline is tight interested Applicants can apply using the Link provided 👉 Here. Registration is expected to close around the grand finale date of 30 October 2026. Early submission is strongly advised.
Gather your team, open that Blaze account, refine your idea, and take the leap. Nigeria’s next wave of innovators is being built right now and InnovateX 2026 could be the launchpad you need.
Don’t just imagine the future. Build it.
