Three Nigerian agritech startups win $40,000 at AYuTe Africa Challenge

Heifer International has awarded $40,000 to three youth-led agritech startups in Nigeria to support technology-driven solutions in agriculture.

The company announced on Tuesday at the grand finale of the AYuTe Africa Challenge Nigeria 2025, held in Abuja.

At the event, the top five finalists pitched innovative ideas to transform agriculture through technology, following a competitive process involving over 1,000 applicants.

However, only three startups were selected based on their innovative approaches and potential to scale impact across Nigeria’s agriculture value chain.

Seyi Alabi of Crop2Cash won the $20,000 grand prize, Aisha Rilwanu Sidi of Grabb 247 received $12,000 after emerging as the first runner-up, and Deborah Oigocho of Erido Agro was awarded $8,000 as the second runner-up.

Speaking at the event, Lekan Tobe, country director for Heifer Nigeria, said the growing number of participants reflects the rising interest among young Nigerians in agritech and the potential of innovation to drive sector-wide transformation.

“This is a journey,” Tobe said.

“Development doesn’t happen in one day, but the policies and support systems are moving us in the right direction.

“Our goal is to ensure that these young innovators go beyond the challenge to build viable, scalable businesses.”

He said the prize pool is only one part of the programme, with the broader objective being to equip young entrepreneurs with the tools, mentorship, and support needed to become employers and change agents in the agricultural sector.

Tobe also said the challenge offers a platform for young innovators to commercialise solutions that address gaps across the agricultural value chain from farm management and processing to logistics and market access.

“We are building the next generation of leaders who will revolutionise agriculture, not just in Nigeria, but across the continent,” he added.

‘YOUTH WILL DRIVE FUTURE OF AGRICULTURE’

Also, speaking at the event, Idi Maiha, minister of livestock development, praised the innovation and energy shown by the finalists.

He said Nigeria’s future in agriculture rests on the shoulders of young talents equipped with the right tools, platforms, and partnerships.

“It’s amazing to see these young people take charge of the future of Nigeria’s agricultural space — not just as future employees but as business leaders,” he said.

Maiha called for stronger collaboration between the private sector, state governments, and international partners to unlock opportunities for agritech entrepreneurs and ensure sustained sector growth.

The AYuTe Africa Challenge is one of Heifer International’s flagship initiatives designed to encourage young Africans to deploy technology in solving agricultural challenges.

Beyond funding, participants received technical training and access to national and global networks.