Zenith Bank Startup Pitch Competition (Zecathon 4.0): Apply Now

The Zenith Bank Startup Pitch Competition is now open for applications for the 2024 edition.

This competition offers Nigerian startups the chance to win prizes worth ₦77.5 million while gaining exposure and expert mentorship.

About the Competition

The Zenith Bank Zecathon is a major feature of the Zenith Bank Tech Fair 2024.

The conference will focus on Embedded Finance, Cybersecurity and AI-driven growth opportunities.

This competition aims to identify and support innovative startups across sectors such as Fintech, AgriTech, HealthTech and E-commerce.

Startups will benefit from a competitive platform that combines pitching and an incubation phase.

The initiative provides startups with tools, mentorship and funding to grow and impact Nigeria's digital economy.

Eligibility Criteria

To participate, startups must meet the following requirements:

• Be registered as a business entity in Nigeria.
• Operate in one or more of the listed focus sectors.
• Have a viable product or Minimum Viable Product (MVP) with market traction.
• Present a scalable business model with growth potential.

Benefits of the Competition

Participants will have access to cash prizes and other opportunities:

• The top three startups will win ₦25 million, ₦20 million and ₦15 million, while all other finalists will receive ₦2.5 million.
• Startups will gain access to investors and seasoned mentors for funding and partnerships.
• Participants will receive training in financial management, product development, branding and market positioning.
• The competition offers networking opportunities with industry leaders and potential collaborators.
• Startups will also receive technical support, co-development assistance and market entry support.

Focus Sectors for Innovation

Startups working in the following areas are encouraged to apply:

• FMCG (Digital transformation in consumer goods).
• Insurance (Digital solutions for accessible insurance).
• Education (Improving access to learning).
• Retail and E-commerce (Advancing digital retail experiences).
• Payments and Lending (Secure financial solutions).
• Cybersecurity (Enhancing data protection).
• Agriculture (Modernising farming processes).
• Health (Improving healthcare delivery).
• Transportation and Logistics (Optimising mobility solutions).

How to Apply

Interested startups can submit their applications through the Zenith Bank Pitch Competition application page.

For more details, visit the official competition page.

The deadline for applications is 15th November 2024.

This competition provides startups with a platform to scale and shape the future of innovation in Nigeria.

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This post is authored by Olusegun Fapohunda, the founder and editor of MySchoolGist.

Boasting over a decade of expertise in the education sector, Olusegun offers current insights into educational trends, career opportunities and the latest news.

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