Initiative Aims to Fuel Cross-Border Expansion with a $10,000 Grand Prize
Verto, the global fintech company specializing in cross-border payments, foreign exchange (FX), and enterprise banking solutions across emerging markets, has announced the launch of the Verto Global Business Award. This initiative is designed to support early-stage startups in Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa by providing them with financial resources and global exposure to scale internationally.
The award, which comes with a total prize pool of up to $15,000, aims to accelerate the growth of high-potential startups, particularly those already engaging in multiple markets and working with international suppliers.
Breaking Down Barriers for Emerging Market Startups
Startups often struggle with access to funding, efficient cross-border payment solutions, and global supplier networks. Verto, known for its efforts in simplifying financial transactions across emerging markets, is looking to bridge these gaps by:
- Offering financial grants to help startups expand beyond local markets
- Recognizing businesses with high growth potential in international trade
- Providing winners with global visibility and credibility to attract investors and partners
Who Can Apply?
Applications for the Verto Global Business Award open on February 6, 2025. Eligible startups must meet the following criteria:
- Early-stage startups operating for a maximum of two years
- Based in Kenya, Nigeria, or South Africa
- Demonstrate operations across multiple markets
- Have established connections with international suppliers
Prize Breakdown & Announcement Date
The winning startups will be selected based on innovation, market impact, and business growth potential. The prizes are structured as follows:
- Winner: $10,000 to scale operations globally
- Runner-up: $3,000 to support expansion
- Second runner-up: $2,000 for international business growth
The winners will be officially announced on October 10, 2025.
Verto’s Vision for Africa’s Business Landscape
Verto’s CEO and Co-Founder, Ola Oyetayo, emphasized the role of global connectivity in driving business success:
“The world today is more connected than ever, and for startups, access to global markets isn’t just an advantage—it’s a game changer. Payments are at the heart of this, and at Verto, we’ve spent years breaking down financial barriers, enabling businesses to send and receive money effortlessly while connecting Africa and other emerging markets to the world. The Verto Global Business Award takes this a step further, equipping the next generation of entrepreneurs with the resources and global recognition they need to scale and compete on a global stage.”
With 29% of the world’s GDP linked to international trade, and Africa’s intra-continental trade expected to boost income by $450 billion by 2035, initiatives like the Verto Global Business Award provide critical support for startups looking to leverage these growth opportunities.
Verto’s Role in Cross-Border Trade & Fintech Innovation
Since its launch in 2017, Verto has remained at the forefront of digital financial services for businesses across 170+ countries. The platform allows businesses to:
- Make secure and seamless cross-border transactions
- Convert between 49+ currencies at competitive rates
- Instantly send and receive payments across 200+ countries
Verto currently supports over 4,000 businesses, from startups to large corporations, facilitating millions of dollars in global trade annually.
How to Apply
Startups interested in the Verto Global Business Award can submit their applications online via the official Verto application form: Apply Now
Final Thoughts
Verto’s new initiative is a significant step towards fostering global trade accessibility for startups in Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa. With a focus on reducing financial and operational barriers, this award aims to help early-stage businesses unlock international growth while positioning Africa as a key player in the global startup ecosystem.
For startups looking to scale beyond borders, this is an opportunity to gain funding, industry recognition, and access to new global markets.
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