The Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) has officially announced the 2025 Innovation Drive Ideathon, a national call for bold thinkers, inventors, and entrepreneurs who are ready to shape the future of Zimbabwe’s economy. Running from 20 to 24 May 2025, this unique opportunity aims to transform local ideas into impactful solutions, with winners receiving up to $8,000 in seed funding to develop their prototypes.
Themed “From Ideas to Impact: Fuelling Innovation for Zimbabwe’s Transformation,” the ideathon is focused on solving critical economic challenges by leveraging creativity and technology. POTRAZ is inviting applicants with cutting-edge ideas across five key sectors:
- Fintech – Building financial platforms, decentralized finance solutions, and supervisory technologies.
- Energy Solutions – Developing IoT-driven energy systems, anti-vandalism solutions, and renewable energy sharing platforms.
- AgTech – Creating green technologies, circular economy models, and climate-resilient crop monitoring tools.
- Public Services Innovation – Designing sanitation solutions, citizen engagement platforms, and efficient transport systems.
- Tourism & Creative Industries – Innovating through virtual tourism platforms, content marketplaces, and travel-related apps.
What’s in it for You?
Beyond the $8,000 seed funding for winners, participants will gain access to:
- Mentorship and training from seasoned industry experts.
- Business and product development support.
- Opportunities for strategic partnerships and access to vital infrastructure.
- Potential for B2B collaborations and internships that can scale your idea into a viable business.
This initiative is open to innovators from all ten provinces of Zimbabwe, with a strong encouragement for women and persons with disabilities to apply.
How to Apply
Interested applicants must:
- Read the full terms of reference available here: https://bit.ly/idzw2025tors
- Submit a business model canvas, a 2-minute video pitch, and a demographic profile through the official Google form here: https://bit.ly/idzw2025apply
Deadline for Submissions
All applications must be submitted by Friday, 09 May 2025 at 12 noon. This is a rare chance to be part of a national movement that prioritizes local solutions for local problems while positioning Zimbabwe as a hub for innovation.
Don’t miss out—turn your idea into impact and contribute to Zimbabwe’s transformation.
