Ecobank Nigeria, in partnership with Verve, has launched InnovateX 2026, a youth innovation challenge offering ₦20 million in prizes, mentorship and business development support to young Nigerians.
The programme was publicly rolled out in early September 2026, with Ecobank promoting the challenge from at least September 4, 2026, ahead of its wider media coverage on September 6 and 7. Ecobank Nigeria described InnovateX as a platform for young people to turn innovative ideas into practical solutions and businesses.
Powered by Blaze by Ecobank and launched in partnership with Verve, InnovateX is focused on identifying and supporting young innovators working in areas including inclusive finance and the creative economy.
According to the official InnovateX 2026 platform, applications are open to tertiary students nationwide aged 16 to 25 who have a valid school identification. Participants are required to form teams of four and develop solutions in areas including technology, engineering, science, product design, content creation, digital media, entertainment and fashion.
The competition has two major tracks: Inclusive Finance and Creative Economy. The finance track includes financial inclusion, payment innovation, youth credit solutions, fraud prevention, gaming and loyalty, and customer-experience solutions.
Victor Yalokwu, Head of Products and Analytics at Ecobank Nigeria, said Nigeria has an abundance of young talent, creativity and entrepreneurial energy.
“Through InnovateX, we are providing a platform for young people to transform bold ideas into impactful solutions and sustainable businesses,” Yalokwu said, according to the statement reported by PUNCH on September 7, 2026.
He encouraged students, innovators, technology enthusiasts, creators and entrepreneurs to use the opportunity to develop their ideas and gain exposure to industry experts.
Yalokwu added that the programme is designed to provide participants with knowledge, mentorship, exposure and resources needed to operate in a technology-driven market.
Beyond the prize money, Ecobank said participants will go through an innovation journey featuring hybrid bootcamps, expert-led workshops, mentorship, networking and pitching opportunities.
The official InnovateX platform lists regional selection activities at YABATECH in Lagos, the University of Port Harcourt for the South-East/South-South region, and the University of Abuja for the FCT/North.
The programme’s grand finale is scheduled for Friday, October 30, 2026.
Ecobank said InnovateX is part of the opportunities available through its Blaze youth-focused banking proposition.
The InnovateX platform requires participating teams to have an active Blaze account as part of the application process. Participants may also receive access to mentorship and industry experts, internship opportunities with Ecobank, NYSC placement opportunities and visibility to Ecobank’s innovation team.
Young Nigerians interested in participating can register through the official InnovateX platform.
