Lagos • Oct 8, 2025Atinuda Conference
Spark the Future — Pitch Competition
For event innovators fusing sustainability and technology. Pitch live on stage, win a brand-new Nord vehicle, and unlock investors, mentorship, and media.
Grand prize & sponsor spotlight
Spark the Future is an innovation challenge created by Atinuda and powered by Nord Motors to showcase and accelerate event professionals who integrate sustainability and technology into their businesses. Shortlisted businesses and solutions would;
- • Operate within the events ecosystem.
- • Embed sustainability across environmental, social, and economic dimensions.
- • Leverage technology to enhance efficiency.
- • Be registered in Nigeria or elsewhere in Africa and have been operational since September 2024 or earlier.
Why apply
Investor access
Meet active funds and angels looking for sustainable event solutions.
Media spotlight
Get featured across press and social during the conference week.
Mentor network
Dedicated clinic to refine your pitch, model, and story.
Real partnerships
Nord Motors collab that lives beyond the show.
Key dates
Sept 8–24, 2025
Call for applications
Apply online. Confirm eligibility and share your deck. Focus on sustainability + technology in the events ecosystem.
Sept 24–28, 2025
Evaluation & shortlisting
Independent reviewers score all submissions using our published rubric. Top 10 ventures advance.
Sept 29, 2025
Finalists announced
Public reveal of 10 finalists. Participation agreements issued, including Nord partnership terms.
Oct 2–3, 2025
Pitch clinic at Nord HQ
One-day coaching + Q&A drills + test drives. Integrate Nord’s story into your value prop.
Oct 8, 2025
Finals on stage @ Atinuda
5-minute pitch + 3-minute Q&A per finalist. Live audience + media. Winners announced on stage.
Who should apply (eligibility)
- Operate in the events ecosystem (production, venues, logistics, streaming, registration, catering).
- Embed sustainability across environmental, social, and economic dimensions.
- Use technology to enhance efficiency and impact (digital, hybrid, energy-efficient systems, circular materials, AI tools).
- Registered in Africa and operational since Sept 2024 or earlier; ≥12 months of recurring revenue.
- Independent venture (no franchise/spin-off); majority founder ownership/control.
- Willing to enter a post-programme partnership with Nord Motors for 12 months.
Judging criteria (100 points)
20%
Innovation
Novelty and creative integration of sustainability + technology.
20%
Sustainability impact
Reduction in waste/energy/carbon and triple-bottom-line alignment.
15%
Technology integration
Use of digital tools, efficient equipment, and data to drive impact.
15%
Feasibility
Operational viability, demand, and realistic milestones.
15%
Scalability
Ability to grow regionally/internationally while maintaining impact & profit.
15%
Presentation
Clarity, story, visuals, and time management in the pitch.
Each pitch: 5 minutes + 3 minutes of Q&A. Tie-break: higher Sustainability Impact score prevails; if still tied, head judge decides.
FAQs
What sectors qualify?＋
Any venture within the events ecosystem: production, venues, logistics, streaming, registration, catering, and adjacent services.
Is female founder status required?＋
Not required, but we track founder diversity. Indicate whether you are a female-founded venture in the application form.
What do I need for the application?＋
Company details, solution summary, solution link, incorporation year, founder structure, last 12-month revenue band.
What happens after winning?＋
A 12-month collaboration with Nord Motors: vehicle use for logistics, brand integration, and content features to amplify your growth.
Ready to pitch on stage?
Applications close Sept 24, 2025. Shortlist announced Sept 29.
By applying, you agree to our terms and privacy policy.