Zenith Bank is putting ₦90 million on the table for startups that can prove they are already working. Zecathon 6.0 is not for people with just an idea on paper.
If your business has paying customers, a registered entity and room to grow, this is your kind of room. The catch is the clock: applications close on 13 October 2026.
About the Programme
Zecathon is Zenith Bank’s startup pitch competition, and this is the sixth edition. It is run with Beyond Limits and targets growth-stage African startups that already have a market-ready product.
Focus sectors include FMCG, insurance, education, retail and e-commerce, payments and lending, cybersecurity, agriculture, healthcare, and transportation and logistics.
Benefits
The top five startups share ₦90 million. First place gets ₦35 million, second gets ₦20 million, third gets ₦15 million, and fourth and fifth get ₦10 million each.
Money is only part of it. Selected startups also get a showcase on a major innovation platform, access to investors and strategic partners, mentorship and leadership development, and a training programme.
Eligibility Criteria
- Your startup must be a registered business entity.
- It must operate in one or more of the listed focus sectors.
- You need a market-ready product or service.
- You must show traction through customer adoption, revenue or market demand.
- Your business model must be scalable, with a clear growth record.
- The call is open to African startups. Nigeria is not named separately, so confirm any country detail on the form.
Documents Needed to Apply
No document list was published. The form asks for details on your startup, founder profile, business solution and impact, so have these ready:
- Your CAC registration details
- Evidence of traction such as customer numbers, revenue or sales records
- A short founder profile and team background
- A clear description of your solution and the impact it creates
Your numbers will be read closely by judges who are bankers. A well-structured business plan makes your traction and projections easy to defend when the questions start.
Key Details at a Glance
Programme: Zecathon 6.0 Startup Pitch Competition 2026
Organizer: Zenith Bank in partnership with Beyond Limits
Eligible location: Growth-stage African startups with a registered entity
Funding available: ₦90 million in total prizes, with ₦35 million for first place
Application deadline: 13 October 2026
How to Apply
- Check that your business is registered, active in a listed sector and has real traction.
- Read the full call for applications for the details.
- Gather your startup, founder, solution and impact information.
- Complete the official application form.
- Submit before 13 October 2026. Applying is free.
Final Thoughts
With only a few days left, do not wait for the perfect pitch. Submit a clean, honest application with real numbers.
More funding calls are listed on our latest opportunities page.