The InnovateX Challenge 2025 is a dynamic national innovation programme jointly launched by Ecobank and Heave Ventures, designed for young Nigerians aged 16 to 25 who have creative or technological ideas. The initiative offers mentorship, bootcamps, nationwide visibility, and the opportunity to pitch for cash prizes and national recognition. It caters to both the creative and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) sectors, encouraging young people to turn their passions and innovations into sustainable ventures.
This fully sponsored youth innovation competition supports young talents with guidance from industry experts, exposure to skill-building bootcamps, and a competitive platform to showcase their ideas. Whether you’re a digital artist, fashion designer, app developer, or STEM enthusiast, InnovateX provides the structure and support to help launch your idea.
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Host country
Nigeria
Deadline
25 July 2025
Eligibility
To be eligible for InnovateX, applicants must:
- Be between the ages of 16 and 25
- Reside in Nigeria
- Have an idea or early-stage project in the creative or tech space
- Be able to participate in virtual and physical events as scheduled
- No finished product is necessary – an idea is sufficient
Benefits
- Mentorship from top industry professionals in tech and creative sectors
- Participation in hybrid bootcamps focused on branding, business building, and pitching
- National visibility for shortlisted candidates
- Opportunity to pitch at the grand finale in Lagos
- Access to prizes, including cash and development tools
- Enhanced exposure to investors and ecosystem players
Programme Timeline
- 25 June 2025: Applications Open25 July 2025: Application Closes
- 31 July 2025: Shortlisted Participants Announced
- 4 August 2025: Hybrid Bootcamps Begin
- 5 August 2025: Announcement of Top 20 Finalists
- 5 – 11 August 2025: Public Voting
- 12 August 2025: Grand Finale & Awards Ceremony (Lagos)
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Others
InnovateX runs two tracks:
- Creative Track – For youth in fashion, illustration, design, content creation, and media arts
- STEM Track – For tech-focused ideas such as apps, software, hardware, AI/ML, etc.
Participants do not need to live in Lagos; travel will be arranged for finalists if required. School or university enrolment is not a barrier. Both team and solo applications are accepted.
How to Apply
- Visit the InnovateX official website
- Click “Apply Now”
- Fill out the application form with details about your idea
- Check your email and confirm your submission using the email verification link
APPLY FOR THE InnovateX CHALLENGE
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