Wema Bank advances youth innovation drive as 21 Hackaholics finalists emerge

Alliance Bank Malaysia Bhd’s BizSmart Challenge Accelerator Edition 2026 has narrowed down to 13 finalists from a wide range of industries including healthcare, children's therapy, education, personal care, home and living, digital media, food and beverage, and retail. Alliance Bank Group CEO Kellee Kam praised the finalists' ambition, innovation, and growing focus on sustainability.

The finalists underwent a rigorous four-day Accelerator Programme and Business Coaching, followed by a pitching round and an "Ultimate Elevator Pitch" where they had just 60 seconds to pitch their business. Three contestants secured Wild Card places in the finals, and five businesses won the ESG Accelerator Award. The 13 finalists will compete for RM400,000 in cash prizes, along with other special awards and opportunities.

The winners will be announced on November 25, and the public can vote for the People's Choice Award, which includes a RM10,000 cash prize sponsored by Alliance Bank.

Brief written by urgent.news from New Straits Times's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.