FCMB Champions AgriTech Innovation with FMO, HeaveVentures

First City Monument Bank (FCMB), in partnership with the Dutch entrepreneurial development bank (FMO) and HeaveVentures, has successfully concluded the FCMB AgriTech Hackathon 2025.

 This initiative accelerates innovation, sustainability, and digital transformation in Nigeria’s agricultural value chain.

The event brought together seven startups from across the agricultural ecosystem to present tech-driven solutions to sector challenges. After multiple rounds of pitching and mentorship, Qiqi Farms was named the overall winner, while Farm Monitor and Tuplant placed second and third, respectively. Llyon Farms, AgriX, Freshfare, and PalmShops each received a N1 million consolation grant for their contributions.

Speaking at the event, Kudzai Gumunyu, Divisional Head, Agribusiness and Non-Oil Exports, FCMB, said: “This hackathon reflects FCMB’s commitment to nurturing innovation and supporting the next generation of agritech entrepreneurs. By connecting startups to funding, mentorship, and markets, we are helping transform Nigeria’s agricultural sector into a digitally driven, globally competitive industry”.

From left: Divisional Head, Agribusiness and Non-Oil Exports, First City Monument Bank (FCMB), Mr. Kudzai Gumunyu; Divisional Head, Business Banking, Mr. George Ogbonnaya; Managing General Partner, AfriGloCal Venture Capital, Mope Abudu; grand prize winner of the FCMB Agritech Hackathon 2025, Favour Adeleke of Qiqi Farms; Adjunct Professor of Agribusiness at the Lagos Business School, Dr. Jide Adedeji and CEO, Agrimedia Group, Mr. Femi Abioye, at the grand finale and presentation of cheques to winners of the Agritech Hackathon organised by FCMB in partnership with the Dutch Entrepreneurial Development Bank (FMO) and HeaveVentures. The event took place in Lagos recently.

Also commenting, Abiodun Lawal, CEO, HeaveVentures, stated: “This hackathon demonstrates the power of collaboration between financial institutions and the tech ecosystem. We are proud to see startups developing solutions that can redefine productivity, sustainability, and food security across Africa”.

The FCMB AgriTech Hackathon reinforces the institution’s dedication to advancing Nigeria’s food security and digital economy through innovation, partnerships, and access to sustainable finance.