A Platform for Innovation

Twelve African startups have been announced as finalists for the seventh edition of Ecobank’s Fintech Challenge, a prestigious competition that offers a cash prize of US$50,000 and the opportunity for startups to partner with Ecobank, a leading pan-African banking group.

Ecobank: A Pan-African Banking Leader

Ecobank is a prominent independent banking group operating across 35 African countries, serving over 32 million customers in consumer, commercial, and corporate banking sectors. The Fintech Challenge, now in its seventh year, is an annual event designed to identify and support innovative startups that align with the bank’s strategic objectives. By participating, startups have the chance to scale their solutions across Ecobank’s extensive network of 33 countries.

The Road to the Finals

This year’s challenge saw over 1,550 applications from 70 countries in Africa and beyond, reflecting the growing interest and competitiveness of the fintech landscape on the continent. From these, 40 startups were selected to participate in a hybrid semi-final event. Following this rigorous process, 12 startups have emerged as finalists, representing the best of innovation across Africa.

Meet the Finalists: Diverse Innovations Across the Continent

The 12 finalists come from various African countries, showcasing a wide range of fintech solutions:

  • Kenya: BuuPass and Melanin Kapital Neobank
  • Nigeria: Sawport Video Banking as a Virtual Branch and Sproutly
  • Ivory Coast: Daba Finance
  • South Africa: EasyEquities
  • Rwanda: Exuus
  • Togo: MiaPay
  • Cameroon: PaySika
  • Senegal: PROBOUTIK
  • DRC: Vaultpay
  • Guinea: YMO Africa

These startups are set to present their innovative solutions at the Ecobank Fintech Challenge Grand Finale.

A Global Stage for African Innovation

The Grand Finale of the Ecobank Fintech Challenge will take place on September 27 at the Ecobank Pan African Centre in Lomé, Togo. The event will be broadcast live on Ecobank Group’s social media channels, enabling a global audience to witness the competition. During this event, the finalists will compete for the ultimate prize of US$50,000, showcasing their solutions to a panel of judges and industry experts.

A Step Toward Fintech Transformation in Africa

The Ecobank Fintech Challenge continues to be a vital platform for driving fintech innovation across Africa. By supporting startups and providing them with the opportunity to scale their solutions, Ecobank is playing a crucial role in shaping the future of financial services on the continent. The upcoming Grand Finale promises to be a significant event, highlighting the potential of these innovative startups to transform the fintech landscape in Africa.