Ecobank, the Pan-African bank, on Tuesday 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 in partnership with Heave Ventures.
Interested participants, according to a statement by the group, are to apply at www.innovatex.africa to be part of the top 10 winners to share a prize pool of ₦20,000,000.
The program is slated to last from July 1 – August 12, 2025 and there will be two tracks, one big opportunity, including a creatives track to learn the business of creativity — for designers, artists, content creators, and more, and the STEM Track for mastering the Art of the Pitch — for developers, engineers, and tech innovators.
Speaking at the launch event in Lagos, Bolaji Lawal, Managing Director and Group Executive of Ecobank Nigeria, described “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 as applications close on July 31, 2025.
Continuing, he said “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.”
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 card; three free NIP transfers every month; automatic eligibility to participate in InnovateX and other youth-focused programmes; access to EPAC Studio — a creative hub for digital content and production; as well as opportunity to become a Campus Ambassador.
Students enrolled in Nigerian tertiary institutions, the statement added, 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, Ecobank continued, 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.
