Top 10 Gen Z Startups in Nigeria

Nigeria’s entrepreneurial landscape is experiencing a dynamic shift, with Generation Z at the forefront of innovation and enterprise. These young entrepreneurs, typically aged between 16 and 25, are leveraging technology and fresh perspectives to address local challenges and create global opportunities. This article delves into the top 10 Nigerian startups founded by Gen Z innovators, highlighting their contributions to various sectors and the broader economy.

1. Zeddpay: Revolutionizing Financial Transactions with Airtime

Founded by 17-year-old Pleasant Balogun, Zeddpay is a financial platform that empowers users to conduct local and international transactions using airtime. The platform facilitates the conversion of airtime to cash, providing a vital service for individuals without traditional banking access. Zeddpay’s user-friendly interface ensures secure and efficient transactions, bridging the gap between telecommunication services and financial accessibility.

2. Brimble: Simplifying Web Deployment for Developers

Brimble is a cloud-based platform designed to streamline the deployment and hosting of web applications. It offers features such as deployment previews, custom domains, and HTTPS support, catering to developers seeking efficient hosting solutions. Although the founder’s details are not specified, Brimble’s commitment to enhancing the developer experience is evident through its comprehensive service offerings.

3. Bimepay: Integrating Cryptocurrency into Everyday Transactions

Founded by 18-year-old Clinton Imaro, Bimepay is a payment platform that facilitates the purchase of iTunes gift cards using various cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin and Litecoin. By enabling users to convert digital assets into tangible purchasing power, Bimepay bridges the gap between cryptocurrency holdings and everyday consumer needs, promoting the practical use of digital currencies.

4. Feedpay: Advancing Web3 Financial Services in Nigeria

Under the leadership of CEO Adegoke Opeyemi, Feedpay is a financial service platform that provides Nigerian users with access to stable cryptocurrencies securely and conveniently. The platform supports seamless swapping between the Nigerian Naira and stablecoins such as USDT, USDC, DAI, and BUSD, facilitating smoother transactions in the evolving digital economy.

5. AltSchool Africa: Democratizing Tech Education Across the Continent

AltSchool Africa is an edtech startup focused on providing accessible and affordable tech education to individuals across the continent. By offering a curriculum tailored to the demands of the modern tech industry, AltSchool Africa equips students with practical skills, thereby addressing the skills gap and enhancing employability in the tech sector.

6. Clafiya: Revolutionizing Healthcare Access in Nigeria

Clafiya is a healthtech startup dedicated to improving healthcare delivery by connecting patients with verified healthcare providers. The platform streamlines the process of finding and booking medical services, ensuring timely and efficient access to healthcare, which is crucial in enhancing patient outcomes and overall public health.

7. Vesti: Simplifying Migration Processes for Nigerians

Vesti is a platform designed to assist individuals navigating the complexities of migration. It offers resources and guidance on visa applications, relocation services, and integration into new communities, thereby easing the transition for migrants and supporting them in establishing new lives abroad.

8. Chowdeck: Enhancing Food Delivery Services in Urban Areas

Chowdeck is a food delivery startup that connects users with a wide range of restaurants and eateries. The platform emphasizes timely deliveries and a diverse selection of cuisines, catering to the dynamic tastes of Nigerian consumers and contributing to the growth of the country’s food-tech industry.

9. Kippa: Empowering Small Businesses with Financial Management Tools

Kippa is a fintech startup that provides small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with tools for financial management, including bookkeeping, invoicing, and expense tracking. By simplifying financial processes, Kippa enables business owners to focus on growth and sustainability, thereby strengthening the backbone of Nigeria’s economy.

10. Spleet: Innovating Flexible Living Solutions for Urban Dwellers

Spleet is a proptech startup offering flexible living arrangements by connecting individuals seeking short-term accommodations with property owners. The platform caters to the growing demand for adaptable housing solutions, particularly among young professionals and digital nomads, reflecting the changing dynamics of urban living.

Factors Driving Gen Z Entrepreneurial Success in Nigeria

Several factors contribute to the success of these Gen Z-led startups:

Technological Proficiency: Growing up in the digital age, Gen Z entrepreneurs possess an innate understanding of technology, enabling them to develop innovative solutions.
Access to Information: The widespread availability of online resources and educational platforms has empowered young entrepreneurs to acquire knowledge and skills necessary for business development.
Supportive Ecosystem: Nigeria’s evolving startup ecosystem, including incubators, accelerators, and funding opportunities, provides a conducive environment for young entrepreneurs to thrive.
Resilience and Adaptability: Faced with economic and infrastructural challenges, Gen Z entrepreneurs exhibit resilience and adaptability, essential traits for navigating the dynamic business landscape.

Challenges and Opportunities

While these startups demonstrate remarkable innovation, they also encounter challenges such as limited access to capital, regulatory hurdles, and market competition. However, these challenges present opportunities for growth, collaboration, and the development of robust business models that can withstand the complexities of the Nigerian market.

Conclusion

The emergence of Gen Z-led startups in Nigeria signifies a promising shift towards a more innovative and inclusive economy. These young entrepreneurs are not only addressing local challenges but are also positioning Nigeria as a hub for technological advancement and entrepreneurial excellence. As they continue to disrupt traditional industries and create new markets, their impact is poised to resonate on both national and global scales.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What defines a Gen Z startup?
A Gen Z startup is a business founded and run by individuals born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s. These startups often leverage technology and innovation to solve modern problems and create new market opportunities.

Q2: Why are Gen Z entrepreneurs thriving in Nigeria?
Gen Z entrepreneurs in Nigeria are thriving due to their digital proficiency, access to online education, supportive startup ecosystems, and a strong entrepreneurial spirit that helps them navigate economic and infrastructural challenges.

Q3: How do Nigerian Gen Z startups secure funding?
Many Gen Z startups secure funding through angel investors, venture capital firms, startup incubators, accelerators, and crowdfunding platforms. Some also participate in grant competitions and government-sponsored innovation programs.

Q4: What industries are Nigerian Gen Z startups disrupting?
Nigerian Gen Z startups are making an impact in industries such as fintech, edtech, healthtech, proptech, and e-commerce, among others. They are addressing local problems while contributing to economic growth.

Q5: What are the biggest challenges Gen Z startups face in Nigeria?
Some major challenges include limited access to funding, regulatory hurdles, market competition, and infrastructural deficits such as unstable power supply and poor internet connectivity.

Q6: How can the Nigerian government support Gen Z startups?
The government can support Gen Z startups by providing funding opportunities, creating favorable policies, improving infrastructure, and offering tax incentives for young entrepreneurs.

Q7: Are there startup incubators and accelerators specifically for Gen Z in Nigeria?
Yes, several incubators and accelerators in Nigeria support young entrepreneurs, including the Tony Elumelu Foundation, Co-Creation Hub (CcHub), and the Lagos Innovates program.

Q8: How do Nigerian Gen Z startups compare to those in other African countries?
Nigerian Gen Z startups are among the most innovative in Africa, benefiting from a large youth population, increasing internet penetration, and a growing appetite for digital solutions. They often lead in fintech, e-commerce, and digital services compared to other African countries.

Q9: What role does social media play in the success of Gen Z startups?
Social media plays a crucial role by providing a low-cost marketing channel, enabling customer engagement, and helping startups reach a wider audience both locally and internationally.

Q10: How can aspiring Gen Z entrepreneurs start their own businesses in Nigeria?
Aspiring Gen Z entrepreneurs can start by identifying a problem to solve, conducting market research, building a strong team, developing a business model, seeking mentorship, and leveraging available startup resources such as incubators and funding programs.

References

Startup Stash. (2025). Here Are The Top 10 Startups in Nigeria Founded by Gen Z.
Tony Elumelu Foundation. (2025). Empowering Young African Entrepreneurs.
Co-Creation Hub (CcHub). (2025). Nigeria’s Leading Tech Incubator.