Zenith Bank has officially launched the highly anticipated Zecathon 4.0, promising Nigerian startups a chance to compete for an impressive ₦77.5 million in cash prizes. This annual competition, a centerpiece of the Zenith Bank Tech Fair, aims to discover and accelerate Nigeria’s most promising startups across key sectors including FMCG, insurance, education, retail, e-commerce, cybersecurity, agriculture, health, payments, lending, and transportation.

In partnership with Beyond Limits, a renowned driver of innovation and business growth, Zecathon 4.0 is set to provide more than just funding—it’s designed as a platform for sustainable impact. Adaora Umeoji, Group Managing Director and Chief Executive of Zenith Bank Plc, emphasized this mission, stating, “Zecathon is more than just a competition; it’s a platform for creating lasting impact. We’re looking not just for the next big tech idea but for solutions that will improve lives and foster Nigeria’s economic growth.”

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Early-stage Nigerian startups with a minimum viable product are encouraged to apply, and participation is free. Interested founders can submit their applications through Beyond Limits.

The stakes are high, with the top three winners set to receive cash prizes of ₦25 million, ₦20 million, and ₦15 million respectively. Additionally, seven other finalists will each take home ₦2.5 million. All ten finalists will also participate in a comprehensive six-week incubation program to refine their business models and scale their impact.

The African tech landscape has been flourishing, with startup funding exceeding $4.85 billion in 2022. Zecathon 4.0 aims to fuel this momentum, positioning Nigerian entrepreneurs to shape the continent’s digital future. Fikun Aluko, head of entrepreneurship programs at Beyond Limits, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “We are proud to partner with Zenith Bank to empower the next generation of African tech leaders who will drive the continent’s digital transformation.”

Aspiring founders are encouraged to apply for Zecathon 4.0 and seize the opportunity to take their ventures to new heights with Zenith Bank’s support.