Zenith Bank has announced the return of its annual startup competition, Zecathon 4.0.
The competition, a vital component of the Zenith Bank Tech Fair, offers up to ₦77.5 million in cash prizes this year.
Zecathon 4.0 seeks to identify and accelerate the growth of Nigeria’s most promising startups in fields including:
- insurance,
- education,
- retail & ecommerce,
- cybersecurity,
- agriculture,
- health,
- payments,
- lending, and
- transportation.
Dame (Dr.) Adaora Umeoji, OON, Group Managing Director/Chief Executive, Zenith Bank Plc, emphasizing the importance of Zecathon, said;
“Zecathon is more than just a competition; it’s a platform for creating lasting impact. We’re not just looking for the next big tech idea; we’re looking for solutions that will improve lives and contribute to Nigeria’s economic growth,”
The official implementation partner for Zecathon 4.0 is Beyond Limits, a leading driver of innovation and business growth.
Speaking on the partnership, the Zenith Bank Chief added
“We are thrilled to partner with Beyond Limits on Zecathon 4.0. Their expertise in fostering innovation and driving business growth will be invaluable in ensuring the success of this program and empowering the next generation of Nigerian tech leaders.”
Fikun Aluko, head of entrepreneurship programs at Beyond Limits also reiterating the importance of Zecathon and the company’s partnership, said;
“The African tech ecosystem is booming, with startup funding exceeding $4.85 billion in 2022 alone. Zecathon 4.0 embodies this growth and is an opportunity to further fuel the momentum. Beyond Limits is proud to partner with Zenith Bank to empower the next generation of African tech leaders who will shape the continent’s digital future.”
Eligibility
The competition is open to early-stage Nigerian startups with a minimum viable product.
The startups must also be players in the chosen fields of focus.; insurance, education, retail & ecommerce, cybersecurity, agriculture, health, payments, lending, and transportation.
Benefits
The top three winners will receive ₦25 million, ₦20 million, and ₦15 million respectively. The other seven finalists will each receive ₦2.5 million.
All ten finalists will also participate in a six-week incubation program.
”Applications are open now through November 15th at https://beyondlimits.global/zenithbankpitchcompetition/.
