Developed in collaboration with Heave Ventures, the programme seeks to enhance access to capital while accelerating the scalability of innovative agribusiness ventures.
Boosting Agritech Capacity
The programme will provide a competitive ₦20 million grant pool, awarded to startups judged most “investment-ready.” Beyond funding, participants will benefit from digital learning and fundability scoring through Zimara, a proprietary platform that leverages alternative data and readiness benchmarks to spotlight bankable enterprises.
Applications are open from August 8 to September 12, 2025, at on.fcmb.com/AgricTech-Hackathon. The top 20 startups will progress into a six-week intensive investment readiness bootcamp, which concludes in October with a high-profile pitch session before a panel of investors.
Building a Sustainable Agri-Ecosystem
Speaking on the initiative, Mr. Kudzai Gumunyu, Divisional Head of Agribusiness & Non-Oil Exports at FCMB, emphasized that the programme goes beyond conventional financing.
“This programme is more than providing traditional funding; it is a commitment to nurturing and empowering agritech startups to contribute to the agribusiness landscape and unlock its full potential,” Gumunyu said.
He added that the initiative aligns with FCMB’s mission to foster inclusive and sustainable growth through an African-rooted ecosystem that connects people, capital, and markets.
Scaling Agribusiness Innovation
Abiodun Lawal, CEO of Heave Ventures, underscored the transformative potential of agritech innovation on Nigeria and the wider continent.
“Scaling agribusiness innovation can revitalise entire value chains — from production to processing to export — creating millions of jobs, boosting foreign exchange earnings, and positioning Africa as a key global food and agri-tech supplier,” he explained.
Lawal added that agriculture remains one of the strongest tools against poverty and unemployment, while also being central to achieving food sovereignty. “Investing in agribusiness is an investment in the continent’s economic independence, resilience against global challenges, and the dignity of its people,” he noted, praising FCMB and FMO’s commitment.
Looking Ahead
With agriculture at the heart of Nigeria’s economy, the FCMB–FMO initiative seeks to prepare the next generation of agritech innovators for growth, positioning them as catalysts for food security, job creation, and sustainable economic development.