FINTECH AFRICA | Cross-Border Global Payments Startup, Verto, Launches $10K Business Award to Drive Africa Fintech Expansion

Verto, a fintech company that facilitates global payments and cross-border transactions, has introduced the Verto Global Business Award to support early-stage businesses in expanding beyond local markets and into the global economy.

The World Trade Organization reports that 29% of global GDP is tied to international trade, with this figure steadily increasing. For African startups, intra-continental trade is expected to generate an additional $450 billion in income by 2035.

The Verto Global Business Award seeks to empower startups by offering financial support and strategic connections, enabling them to scale internationally and capitalize on this growth.

Verto is offering a range of incentives to help startups expand globally:

• Cash Prizes – Win up to $10,000 to fuel business growth.
• Runner-up: $3,000
• Second runner-up: $2,000
• Global Recognition – Gain international exposure and credibility
• Resources to Scale – Access tools and connections to expand into new markets


According to Verto’s Kenya Country Manager, Kevin Ng’ang’a, on top of the capital injection, innovators will get access to mentorship and increased visibility among global investors.

“We will be on the lookout for entrepreneurs using cross-border operations and how they are helping their target markets grow, and those using API solutions to reduce transactional costs and improve market linkages,” he said.

“We are also keen on market challengers solving critical problems that change the African story.”

Who Can Apply?

Startups that meet the following criteria are encouraged to apply:

• Operated for approximately two years
• Based in South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, the US, the UK, and other key global markets
• Have demonstrated potential for international market expansion

Selection Criteria

Applications will be judged based on:

• Market impact
• Innovation
• Business growth potential
• Demonstrated operations in multiple markets
• Connections with international suppliers

How to Apply?

Applications for the Verto Global Business Award open on 1st March 2025 and close on 31st August 2025. To apply, fill out the online application form.

Winners will be announced on October 10 2025.

Why Verto?

Verto is a global B2B financial technology firm specializing in cross-border payments, FX, and banking solutions. With a purpose-built payment infrastructure supporting transactions in 170+ countries and 49 currencies, Verto helps over 4,000 businesses, from startups to large enterprises, send and receive millions of dollars annually.

“To grow the economy, we have to make moving goods and services seamless, and that includes paying for them. We aim to reduce transaction costs as much as possible, improve access to markets and foster integration between different payment systems,” Ng’ang’a said.

Follow us on X for latest posts and updates