Global B2B payments platform Verto has announced the winners of its first-ever Verto Global Business Award, created to spotlight early-stage African startups pioneering innovation, economic inclusion, and the continent’s expanding role in global trade.

Launched in February, the award reflects Verto’s commitment to empowering African founders with international ambitions. In addition to funding, the initiative provides visibility, global supplier networks, and the financial infrastructure needed for startups to scale beyond their home markets.

After months of screening and evaluations, the winners were unveiled at an award ceremony in Lagos attended by industry leaders, startup ecosystem partners, media executives, and members of Nigeria’s tech community.

Fintech startup Dingpay emerged winner, receiving a $10,000 prize. AquaTrack, an agrotech company, secured second place with a $3,000 award, while online tech-talent marketplace Grower finished third, earning $2,000.

“We are honoured to be recognised as the winner of the Verto Global Business Award,” said Itohowo Udofia, co-founder of Dingpay. “This prize provides the momentum we need to scale faster, strengthen our operations, and access new markets. It’s a powerful validation of our mission.”

Finalists were judged on innovation, feasibility, scalability, and market impact by a panel featuring Dotun Adekunle of OPay; Ime Enang, CEO of The Conversationalist Limited; Omotayo Idowu, Group Head of Commerce; Soibi Ovia, Partner at DAO Law; and Verto’s Country Manager, Austin Okpagu.

Verto’s Co-founder and CEO, Ola Oyetayo, commended the impressive quality of applications, saying the awards highlight the depth of talent and global ambition driving Africa’s startup ecosystem. He added that the initiative reinforces Verto’s commitment to supporting emerging African businesses as they build, innovate, and expand into global markets.