When Onitsha Business Hangout announced the Onitsha Innovation TechQuest 2025, nobody knew they were about to make history.
On April 6, 2025, the city witnessed its first privately organized tech pitch competition, setting a powerful precedent for what the future of technology in Onitsha could look like.
Held at No. 10 Ridge Road, the event brought together entrepreneurs, tech enthusiasts, investors, and dreamers — all gathered with one purpose: to celebrate innovation.
A Stage for New Ideas
The energy at the TechQuest was electric. From 52 startup applications, only 12 were shortlisted. In the end, 9 ambitious startups made it to the final pitch, competing across sectors like EdTech, FoodTech, PropTech, and more.
And it wasn’t just about pitching ideas — real opportunities were on the line.
With a total prize pool of ₦5.6 million, including ₦4 million in cash prizes and laptops worth ₦1.6 million, the stakes were high.
The judges weren’t looking for just good ideas. They were looking for solutions that showed innovation, scalability, market potential, and the ability to create real social impact.
Who Came and What Happened
Despite being a first-time event, the turnout was impressive:
Around 190 attendees filled the venue.
The audience was a colorful mix of entrepreneurs, industry professionals, media houses, and of course, volunteers who made everything possible.
Online, the buzz was just as loud with over 500+ social media posts and a lively YouTube livestream that attracted viewers beyond the city.
The startups that pitched were largely young and dynamic — 80% of them were between 26 and 35 years old. Though most founders were men, the sheer passion they brought was undeniable.
Interestingly, while 25% of the participants were from Anambra State, the majority came from other parts of Nigeria — showing that Onitsha is beginning to draw attention from the broader tech community.
The Financial Footprint
The event wasn’t just about ideas — it also created a direct economic boost:
₦627,000 went into logistics, setups, refreshments, and accommodations.
₦300,000+ was pumped directly into local vendors and hotels.
Sponsors like FunZ, Agro Market Square, and others helped cover costs and prizes, adding almost ₦2 million in support.
This proved that tech events can generate real business for local communities — not just buzzwords.The Startups That Shined
The startups showcased solutions in:
Fintech (24%)
Edtech (12%)
Delivery Tech (12%)
Proptech (12%)
Other innovative sectors (50%)
And the best part?
90% of the startups went on to secure access to Zoho marketing tools.
80% entered mentorship programs with Startup South — a stepping stone toward scaling their businesses.
Photos from Onitsha Tech Quest 2025
What We Learned
Every great beginning comes with lessons, and the TechQuest revealed a few important truths:
Logistical challenges: Some attendees had trouble finding the venue.
Lack of local tech participation: Only two tech hubs from Anambra (Zikora Chukwuka of Anambra Techies and Raalu Freeman of Activ8 Hub) showed up despite 22 being invited.
Zero female founder participation: A clear area needing improvement.
Low tech enthusiasm among Onitsha residents: More work is needed to build a true tech culture here.
What Needs to Happen Next
For future editions, these steps can take the event to the next level:
Stronger logistics: Smoother check-ins, clearer directions.
Wider outreach: Bring in more national participants, not just locals.
Bigger venue, bigger dreams: Scaling to host 500+ attendees.
Targeted support for female founders: Encouraging inclusivity in tech.
More tech events throughout the year: Build excitement leading up to the TechQuest.
The Big Picture
The Onitsha Innovation TechQuest 2025 wasn’t just an event — it was a statement.
It proved that Onitsha has the talent, energy, and ambition to become a true tech city.
With ₦5 million+ awarded, 190 participants engaged, and a city buzzing with new ideas, this is just the beginning.
If the lessons are embraced and the momentum continues, the next few years could see Onitsha rising as one of Nigeria’s most exciting innovation hubs.
The countdown to TechQuest 2026 has already begun — and it promises to be even bigger.