X3M Ideas launches X-Pitchathon for Zambian entrepreneurs
By Oluwaseyi Lawal
Zambian entrepreneurs and startup innovators are in for an exciting opportunity as X3M Ideas Zambia introduces the X-Pitchathon, aimed at empowering startups from various sectors. This competition offers a distinctive platform for entrepreneurs to showcase their innovative ideas and business concepts, all while competing for an impressive grand prize over USD 50,000.
Set to shine in the vibrant city of Lusaka, the X-Pitchathon invites local entrepreneurs and early-stage businesses that have progressed beyond the idea stage. The winning business will secure a remarkable prize package, including a cash award of over USD 2,000, marketing support valued at over USD 40,000, and essential business tools worth over USD 4,000. Additionally, the Purpose Category winner will receive more than USD 1,000 in funding.
The parent company, X3M Ideas Nigeria, has transformed the advertising landscape in Nigeria and established itself as the nation’s leading creative powerhouse. Recently, it achieved a significant milestone with 18 awards at the 2023 Pitcher Awards and made history by becoming the first Nigerian firm to receive the prestigious Cannes Lions Awards. With its expansion into Zambia, Congo Brazzaville, and Kenya, X3M Ideas is poised for further growth across Africa and the Middle East.
The X-Pitchathon competition reflects X3M Ideas’ commitment to showcasing the brilliance of Zambian innovators and providing them with the essential resources to expand their viable enterprises. Beyond offering substantial funding for accelerated growth, this competition presents an invaluable opportunity to connect innovators with industry leaders, potential investors, and fellow pioneers.
Steve Babaeko, the Founder and CEO of X3M Ideas, underscores that this competition goes beyond mere prizes; it’s also about fostering creativity among young innovators. “X-Pitchathon embodies our resolute dedication to cultivating a thriving ecosystem for startups in Zambia. With this competition, we’re not only providing a stage for these brilliant minds to shine but also offering the essential resources they need to turn their visions into reality. We’re delighted that this event will redefine entrepreneurial resilience in the country,” he said.
Acknowledging the crucial role of innovation and entrepreneurship in Zambia’s economy, the X-Pitchathon is a key component of X3M Ideas Zambia’s five-year anniversary celebration, taking place on August 29th. This initiative is a tangible effort to back startups that have been running for less than five years, with the aim of transforming their potential into real success stories.
Adenike Odutola, Managing Director of X3M Ideas Zambia, said, “At this event, we will witness firsthand the bubbling entrepreneurial and startup ecosystem dominated by Zambia’s most brilliant minds. We are inspired by this relentless zeal to develop business ideas and embrace innovation to solve problems.”
To take part in the X-Pitchathon, innovators and entrepreneurs must meet specific eligibility criteria, including being at least 18 years old, having a functional prototype or minimum viable product (MVP), and providing essential documentation such as a National ID and PACRA registration. The competition is expected to attract participants from diverse industries, spanning technology to traditional sectors, all driven by their ambition to revolutionize established business models.
The entry period for the X-Pitchathon commenced on August 29, 2023, and will conclude on September 29, with the final pitch event scheduled for November 1, 2023. An esteemed panel of judges, consisting of investors and business leaders, will assess the presentations and determine the recipients of the grand prize and the “Purpose Driven Category” funding.
Prospective participants can find further information on http://www.pitchathon.com
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