Deadline: July 25, 2025
Are you a young Nigerian innovator with a bold idea in the creative or tech space? The InnovateX Youth Innovation Competition 2025 is now open for applications, offering a unique opportunity to develop your skills, pitch your ideas, and compete for a share of a ₦20 million prize pool.
Backed by Ecobank and Heave Ventures, InnovateX is designed to empower the next generation of African entrepreneurs in STEM and creative industries. If you’re between 16 and 25 years old, this is your chance to showcase your talent and turn your passion into a scalable venture.
About the InnovateX Youth Innovation Competition 2025
The InnovateX Youth Innovation Competition 2025 is an intensive, multi-track programme aimed at nurturing young Nigerian talents. It is open to aspiring entrepreneurs, creatives, and developers with strong ideas—even if they’re still in the concept stage.
The competition is structured into two major tracks:
- Creatives Track: Tailored for fashion designers, content creators, digital artists, and storytellers ready to turn creativity into a brand.
- STEM Track: Designed for developers, engineers, and tech-savvy youth to build functional prototypes and pitch solutions to real-world problems.
Programme Benefits
Participants in the InnovateX competition can expect:
- 💰 ₦20 million in prize money distributed among the top 10 finalists.
- 🎓 Mentorship & Bootcamps: Hybrid learning sessions covering branding, business development, pitching, and prototype building.
- 🌍 National Exposure: Grand finale in Lagos, with the spotlight on your idea.
- 🧠 Business Support Tools: Access to Ecobank’s Blaze Account, featuring:
- Free debit card
- Free monthly NIP transfers
- Exclusive content creation via EPAC Studio
- Ambassador opportunities
Important Dates to Note
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | 25 June 2025 |
| Application Closes | 25 July 2025 |
| Hybrid Bootcamp | August 2025 |
| Public Voting | Early August 2025 |
| Grand Finale (Lagos) | 12 August 2025 |
Ensure your availability for bootcamps and the Lagos finale if shortlisted.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible, you must:
- Be between 16 and 25 years old
- Reside in Nigeria
- Apply to either the Creatives or STEM track
- Be willing to commit to the programme’s activities, including virtual and in-person sessions
You do not need a finished product to apply—a strong, clearly presented concept is enough.
How to Apply
To apply for the InnovateX Youth Innovation Competition 2025:
👉 Click here to apply
👉 Read more about the programme here
Applicants must submit a detailed idea pitch (visual, audio, or written), and select the appropriate track—Creative or STEM.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Clarify the Problem You’re Solving: Be specific about the impact of your idea.
- Present Creatively: Use engaging visuals, prototypes, or demos to support your submission.
- Prepare to Learn: Be ready for hands-on bootcamps that will challenge and equip you.
- Maximise the Blaze Account: Use the business support tools Ecobank provides to enhance your journey.
Final Thoughts
The InnovateX Youth Innovation Competition 2025 is more than a contest—it’s a transformative platform for young Nigerians to gain visibility, funding, and skills to turn big ideas into viable businesses. Whether you’re a designer, developer, or content creator, this is your opportunity to shine.
Submit your application by 31 July 2025 and position yourself among Nigeria’s rising innovators.
Contact grantsdatabase.org for proposal drafting, refining, and review assistance.
