MEST Africa Challenge: $50k investment, global exposure

MEST Africa, a prominent pan-African entrepreneurial training programme, has extended the application deadline for the MEST Africa Challenge 2023, with the aim of fostering broader participation from innovative start-ups across the continent.

Entrepreneurs steering early-stage technology start-ups in Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, Kenya, and South Africa are invited to grab this opportunity to showcase their pioneering ideas. The application window, which is currently open, has been extended until 16 October 2023.

The MEST Africa Challenge offers promising start-ups substantial benefits, including a chance to win a $50 000 equity investment, providing essential capital to fuel their business growth. Additionally, the winner and outstanding participants will gain access to a global network, offering valuable opportunities for partnerships, mentorship, and potential investment.

Ashwin Ravichandran, portfolio advisor and MEST Africa Challenge Lead, expressed his enthusiasm about the overwhelming response from budding entrepreneurs across Africa. He stated, “The enthusiasm and interest we have seen from budding entrepreneurs and prospective applicants across Africa has been truly inspiring.

“Recognising this, we have extended the application deadline. This ensures that every innovative start-up gets a fair chance to be a part of this transformative journey. We have seen the pivotal impact this challenge has had on past winners, and we are eager to discover the next game-changing start-up that will redefine the African tech landscape.”

In 2022, the challenge was won by Kwely, a dynamic B2B e-commerce start-up from Senegal. The competition has consistently served as a launchpad for standout start-ups from various African nations.

Previous winners include Tanzania’s Kilimo Fresh, Ghana’s groundbreaking OZE, South Africa’s tech innovator Snode Technologies, Kenya’s Waya Waya, and Nigeria’s trailblazer Accounteer. The challenge continues to spotlight the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit of Africa.

To be eligible for the MEST Africa Challenge 2023, start-ups must meet specific criteria, including a monthly recurring revenue of $5 000 or more, cumulative funding raised of $1 million or less, existence for three years or less, at least six months of recurring revenue traction, a founding team comprising at least two members, registration in Delaware (preferred), and demonstrated traction in the MEST Africa Challenge markets (Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, Senegal).

Entrepreneurs interested in participating can apply at MEST Africa Challenge 2023 Application.

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