By Mark Kawalya
The 2023 Ecobank Fintech Challenge is currently open for applications. An initiative of Ecobank, the competition is aimed at supporting the growth of fintech across Africa by offering opportunities for growth and collaboration.
In this stage of the competition, FinTechs in Africa are encouraged to participate and showcase the innovative solutions they have developed. The competition serves as a platform for upcoming startups to scale their operations and tap into a large base of resources and support.
The final round of the competition, will see the top three finalists selected. Apart from recognition for their hard work, they will also be awarded cash prizes.
The overall winner will take home $15,000, while the second and third runners-up will receive $12,000 and $10,000, respectively. The cash prizes will be used to boost the financial potential of the successful fintech startups.
In addition, finalists in the competition will have the opportunity to join Ecobank’s Fintech Fellowship, which offers a broad knowledge sharing environment and collaboration opportunities with the Ecobank Group.
The competition will also offer finalists opportunities for potential integration and commercial collaborations plus vital insights into possible avenues for scaling their solutions using Ecobank’s well-established network.
Potential integration with Ecobank offers fintech startups an opportunity to roll out their innovations in more than 30 African markets where the bank currently has a presence.
Through its work with fellows, Ecobank aims to improve and align its services with the changing needs of the African fintech landscape.
How to apply for the 2023 Ecobank Fintech Challenge
For eligibility, startups must offer solutions to one or more issues that are facing the financial sector. These could include refining the user experience, accelerating financial inclusion, simplifying credit evaluation, optimizing internal resource use, or any other aspect of financial service provision.
The competition is looking to identify fintech solutions that can be leveraged to drive economic and social change in Africa. FinTechs are encouraged to apply before July 21 so that they have an opportunity to join the community of African fintech innovators.
Interested fintech companies can Apply Here.
