Wema Bank has officially launched Hackaholics 7.0, the latest edition of its flagship innovation programme aimed at discovering, supporting and accelerating startups, innovators and technology enthusiasts across Africa. Branded under the theme "Powering Possibilities," the initiative seeks to strengthen Africa's innovation ecosystem by providing entrepreneurs with funding opportunities, mentorship, strategic partnerships and greater market access.
Since its inception in 2019, Hackaholics has evolved from a traditional hackathon into one of Africa's leading innovation platforms. Over the years, the programme has attracted more than 50,000 participants, supported over 10,000 startups, and facilitated the development of more than 100 technology solutions, helping founders transform promising ideas into scalable businesses.
"Innovation flourishes when bold ideas are matched with the right resources, mentorship and opportunities."
Unlike previous editions, Hackaholics 7.0 introduces three distinct participation tracks designed to accommodate innovators at different stages of development. These include the Startup Pitch Competition for entrepreneurs seeking investment and visibility, the Hackathon Track for developers and engineers building technology solutions, and the newly introduced Social Impact Track, which focuses on innovations addressing pressing societal and environmental challenges.
Participants are encouraged to develop solutions across seven key sectors that reflect Africa's evolving development priorities. These include financial inclusion, healthcare, digital transformation, education, sustainability, social impact and the future of work. By focusing on these areas, the programme aims to encourage technologies capable of improving livelihoods while contributing to long-term economic growth across the continent.
One of the programme's biggest attractions is the extensive support offered beyond the competition itself. Successful participants will gain access to equity-free funding opportunities, experienced mentors, strategic corporate partnerships, investor networks and opportunities to test and scale their solutions in real business environments. Rather than ending with a pitch event, Hackaholics continues supporting founders through an accelerator programme that helps refine products and prepare businesses for commercial success.
"Great startups are not built by funding alone—they grow through mentorship, collaboration and access to the right ecosystem."
Speaking during the launch, Wema Bank Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Moruf Oseni emphasized that the institution's role extends beyond providing financial services. He noted that supporting entrepreneurship and technological innovation is essential to creating opportunities for young Africans and strengthening the continent's digital economy.
The programme is open to founders, developers, designers, students, creatives and professionals with innovative ideas, regardless of whether they have a technical background. Applications are free, making Hackaholics one of the continent's most accessible innovation platforms. After the application phase, shortlisted participants will progress through design thinking workshops, regional pitch sessions and a grand finale before entering the accelerator programme.
Hackaholics has also demonstrated measurable impact through the success of its alumni. Several startups that participated in previous editions have gone on to secure investment, establish strategic partnerships and expand into new markets. These outcomes have strengthened the programme's reputation as a launchpad for entrepreneurs seeking to commercialise innovative solutions capable of addressing real-world challenges.
"Africa's innovation ecosystem continues to grow stronger when entrepreneurs are equipped to solve local challenges with globally competitive solutions."
As Africa's startup ecosystem continues to mature, initiatives such as Hackaholics are becoming increasingly important in addressing barriers that often prevent early-stage businesses from scaling. Limited access to capital, technical expertise and investor networks remains a challenge for many founders. By bringing these resources together under one programme, Wema Bank is helping bridge critical gaps that slow entrepreneurial growth.
The launch of Hackaholics 7.0 reflects growing confidence in Africa's technology sector and the role innovation can play in driving inclusive economic development. As entrepreneurs across the continent continue building solutions for healthcare, finance, education and sustainability, programmes that combine funding, mentorship and market access are expected to play a central role in shaping the next generation of African startups. With applications now open, Hackaholics 7.0 offers innovators an opportunity to transform ambitious ideas into impactful businesses capable of creating jobs, attracting investment and contributing to Africa's digital future.