Verto, the global fin-tech powering enterprise-grade cross-border payments, FX, and banking solutions across emerging markets, has launched the Verto Global Business Award—a transformative initiative to recognize and accelerate the growth of early-stage startups.
With a prize pool of up to USD 15,000 (Ksh 1,936,847.16), the award will spotlight the most promising sector-agnostic startups with global potential, equipping them with the resources needed to scale, and expand into new markets, while building international supplier connections. This initiative underscores Verto’s ongoing commitment to breaking down payment barriers and enabling seamless global trade.
Beginning, applications will open to early-stage startups that have been operating for a maximum of two years in Kenya, South Africa and Nigeria. Winners will be selected based on their market impact, innovation, and business growth potential. Eligible startups must demonstrate multiple market operations and connections with international suppliers.
The winner, runner-up and second runner-up will be announced on 10th October 2025 and awarded USD 10,000 (KSh1,290,750) USD 3,000 (KSh 387,369.43) and USD 2,000 ( 258,150.00) respectively to accelerate their global expansion and streamline their cross-border operations.
Speaking on the launch of Verto Global Business Award, Ola Oyetayo, CEO and Co-Founder of Verto said: “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.”
According to the World Trade Organisation, 29% of global GDP is now linked to international trade, with this figure steadily rising. In Africa, intra-continental trade is expected to boost income by $450 billion (KSh 58,105,414,800.00) by 2035, highlighting the enormous opportunities available and the growing need for businesses to expand beyond their local markets. The Verto Global Business Award is designed to help startups tap into this growth, fostering innovation and supporting businesses in Africa’s economic transformation.
