Zenith Bank has opened applications for its flagship innovation program, Zecathon 5.0, with a total cash prize of ₦140 million for African startups. The program is designed to bring together developers, entrepreneurs, and creative innovators who are building solutions that can drive digital transformation across the continent.
This year’s edition features two major programs: the Startup Pitch Competition and the Hackathon. Both are structured to help early-stage startups turn bold ideas into scalable products through funding, mentorship, incubation, and access to strategic opportunities.
A Platform to Empower African Innovators
Zecathon 5.0 aims to accelerate innovation in key industries including fintech, agritech, healthtech, cybersecurity, embedded finance, artificial intelligence, and other emerging technologies. Startups with a market-ready Minimum Viable Product (MVP), early market traction, and scalable business models are encouraged to apply.
The Startup Pitch Competition, which will take place at the Zenith Bank Tech Fair, is the centerpiece of the initiative. It gives founders a platform to pitch their ideas to a panel of experts, investors, and industry leaders. Top-performing startups will then proceed to a six-week incubation program where they will refine their business models, build market strategies, and receive support from seasoned mentors.
Cash Prizes and Funding Opportunities
The 2025 edition comes with an impressive ₦140 million total prize pool.
- First place receives ₦30 million in cash funding
- Four other finalists receive ₦10 million each
- Additional support is available through investor partnerships, technical mentorship, and strategic growth resources
These funds are intended to help startups scale their innovations and expand their market reach.
One of the biggest advantages of joining Zecathon 5.0 is the access to a wide innovation ecosystem. Startups will connect directly with investors, corporate partners, and government stakeholders. They will also receive training in financial management, branding, product development, and market positioning.
Through this platform, participants gain exposure to collaboration opportunities that can help them scale faster. The program encourages founders to build solutions that are not just innovative but also sustainable and impactful.
Who Can Apply
The program is open to early-stage African startups with a registered business entity. To qualify, applicants should:
- Be operating in one or more of the focus sectors (Fintech, agritech, healthtech, embedded finance, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and other emerging technology fields.)
- Have a viable product or MVP with initial traction
- Present a scalable business model with clear growth potential
- Be ready to participate in pitch sessions, evaluations, and incubation activities
Applications are accepted from innovators across the continent, with activities hosted both online and at select physical venues in Nigeria.
Beyond being a startup challenge, Zecathon 5.0 is also a hackathon for creators and developers. Through the hackathon, teams of two to four members will work on AI, fintech, and emerging technology solutions. Participants can choose a track, develop an idea, prepare a pitch, and present their prototypes live in Lagos.
The hackathon is open to software engineers, designers, data scientists, fintech specialists, and product managers who want to build innovative solutions in real time.
Collaborating to Accelerate Change
Zecathon 5.0 is powered by Zenith Bank, Nigeria’s largest bank by tier-1 capital, in partnership with Beyond Limits, a company committed to advancing innovation and leadership transformation in Africa.
Since its establishment in 1990, Zenith Bank has grown into one of the most influential financial institutions in the country. Through programs like Zecathon, it continues to play an active role in supporting the African startup ecosystem. Beyond Limits contributes by connecting innovators with growth opportunities, promoting digital transformation, and equipping entrepreneurs with essential skills to scale their solutions.
How to Apply For Zecathon 5.0
Applications for Zecathon 5.0 are open until 31 October 2025. Interested startups and teams can apply through the official program pages:
Applicants should submit their pitch deck, product details, registration documents, and other required materials before the deadline.
With ₦140 million in total cash prizes, high-level mentorship, investor access, and real growth opportunities, Zecathon 5.0 is positioning itself as one of Africa’s most impactful startup programs. For many founders, it is a chance to turn ideas into real-world solutions, gain visibility across the continent, and build companies that can shape the future of African innovation.
