ARM gives young tech entrepreneur N12m for topping innovation competition

Rita Idehai of EcoBarter, a female innovator and techpreneur, has been awarded N12 million prize money for coming first in the Deji Alli ARM Young Talent Award (DAAYTA) 2024 for young entrepreneurs.

Designed to nurture young entrepreneurs with innovative and sustainable ideas, the organisers said in a statement yesterday that DAAYTA attracted over 750 applications and that Idehai topped the competition with her waste management innovation.

It said, “Idehai’s Ecobarter Company clinched the top spot among the seven finalists. Ecobarter is a trailblazing waste management and recycling enterprise, utilising technology-driven platforms to collect and repurpose several types of waste into valuable resources for industrial and consumer applications.

“This year’s competition shone a spotlight on exceptional talent and creativity, particularly highlighting women entrepreneurs who have excelled in leadership roles.”

Goods and Services 360 Ltd (GAS360): Founded by Jane Ekeh, which operates at the forefront of clean technology and energy, e-commerce and Fintech sectors came second. GAS360 is dedicated to revolutionising access to clean cooking fuels across Africa through innovative solutions.

The judging panel, composed of esteemed industry experts and investors, including Dr Ndidi Nnoli-Edozien, Kola Aina, Sadiq Mohammed, Folashade Olusanya, Victor Asemota and Ina Alogwu, played a vital role in evaluating the contestants and ensuring a fair and rigorous selection process.