Ecobank Group has announced the opening of applications for the 6th edition of its renowned Ecobank Fintech Challenge. This annual event invites visionary fintech entrepreneurs from across Africa to showcase their innovative solutions and compete for a chance to partner with Ecobank and access its vast network of 35 African markets as well as its international operations in France. The winner of the challenge will also receive a generous cash prize of $50,000 (over Ksh 7 million).
Ecobank’s Fintech Challenge has been instrumental in providing exceptional opportunities for fintech companies aligned with Ecobank’s strategic objectives. By partnering with Ecobank, these fintechs gain access to an expansive market and the potential for product scalability. The Grand Final and Awards ceremony, highly anticipated by participants, will take place in late September.
Successful applicants who make it to the Grand Final will also have the exclusive opportunity to join the prestigious Ecobank Fintech Fellowship program. This fellowship offers a range of benefits and collaborations with Ecobank and its partners. Notably, fintech fellows will have the chance to integrate their solutions with Ecobank, potentially leading to product launches within Ecobank’s Pan-African ecosystem. Selected fintechs may even be chosen as Pan-African service partners, further solidifying their position within the bank’s ecosystem.
In addition, Ecobank Fintech Fellows will gain access to Ecobank’s Pan-African Banking Sandbox, providing them with cutting-edge APIs to test and refine their products for the Pan-African market. The fellowship also offers priority access to Ecobank’s Venture Capital partners, opening doors for potential funding opportunities.
Applications for the Ecobank Fintech Challenge are now open to fintechs and developers from all African countries, as well as global Africa-centered fintechs. Interested parties can submit their applications through the official website, Ecobankfintechchallenge.com, until 21st July 2023.
Jeremy Awori, the Chief Executive Officer of Ecobank Group, expressed his enthusiasm for the Fintech Challenge, highlighting its impact on Africa’s digital landscape and financial inclusion. He mentioned that the collaboration between Ecobank and previous fintech challenge participants has led to the successful launch of innovative products across their markets.
Tomisin Fashina, the Operations and Technology Executive of Ecobank Group, emphasized the significance of the Ecobank Fintech Challenge as Africa’s premier fintech competition, driving scalability for African fintechs. Fashina noted that the challenge identifies talented individuals who can support Ecobank’s mission of fostering bold and innovative solutions to drive pan-African prosperity.
The Ecobank Fintech Challenge was developed in partnership with Konfidants, an international advisory firm, and is supported by various partners. For more information about the competition and how to apply, please visit Ecobankfintechchallenge.com.
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