Table of Contents
The 2025 MOI Awards celebrated the ingenuity of Africa’s rising entrepreneurial talents, with Cardtonic earning top honors in the Start-up of the Year category for its innovative approach to digital finance.
Transforming Everyday Challenges into Financial Solutions
Cardtonic captured attention by addressing a common inconvenience-managing unused gift cards-and evolving this simple concept into a comprehensive digital financial platform. Initially designed to facilitate the exchange and sale of dormant gift cards, the service has expanded to meet broader financial needs across Nigeria and other African markets.
Bridging Local Currency Barriers with Global Digital Access
Today, Cardtonic empowers users to unlock the value of gift cards, streamline digital transactions, and overcome foreign exchange restrictions that often hinder access to international online services. This platform has become indispensable for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and young professionals who navigate the complexities of local currencies while engaging with dollar-denominated digital ecosystems.
Resilience Amid Economic and Regulatory Challenges
Judges at the MOI Awards commended Cardtonic not only for its rapid expansion but also for its steadfastness during a year marked by stringent regulatory changes, volatile currency fluctuations, and a challenging funding environment for startups. The company’s commitment to building user confidence, continuously enhancing its offerings, and discreetly broadening its footprint exemplifies the future trajectory of African fintech innovation.
Setting a Benchmark for Africa’s Fintech Future
Cardtonic’s recognition as Start-up of the Year signals a shift towards fintech solutions that are deeply attuned to the unique financial landscapes of African consumers. As digital finance continues to evolve, platforms like Cardtonic are paving the way for more inclusive, accessible, and resilient financial services across the continent.
