FirstBank awards N29.5 million to 10 Nigerian fintech startups 

NearSwipe Limited, a fintech startup offering NFC smart ID cards with integrated payment solutions for university students, emerged as the overall winner, receiving the grand prize of N10 million.

He noted, “First Bank Fintech Summit 6.0 is more than a conference. It is a catalyst for change. We aim to foster partnership for change, spark creativity and drive progress.

“By working together, we can unlock new possibilities and create a more inclusive, resilient, and innovative financial system.” 

On the first day, the summit featured a pitching session where the finalists presented their already-developed solutions to a distinguished panel.

After rigorous deliberation, NearSwipe Limited claimed the top prize, while Middleman, a startup enabling seamless payments for African e-commerce businesses to suppliers in China, and Esusu Africa Limited, a digital thrift and credit banking platform, won N7.5 million and N5 million, respectively.

The seven other finalists each received N1 million to enhance their solutions.

Speaking on the sidelines of the event, Lande Atere, Chief Customer Experience Officer at First Bank of Nigeria, highlighted the bank’s commitment to collaboration.

She explained, “We are not necessarily competing with fintechs but rather looking for ways to collaborate. By bringing startups into conversations, offering bootcamps, and connecting them with investors, we aim to help them grow their businesses while improving the financial landscape for Nigerians.”