The 5th edition of MEST Africa Challenge // Apply by October 9th

August 31, 2023

The 5th Edition of MEST Africa Challenge // Apply by October 9th

MEST Africa has announced the opening of applications for the fifth edition of the MEST Africa Challenge, the winner of which will secure US$50,000 in equity funding.

Dream big, pitch bold, and unlock the next stage of your business and entrepreneurial growth. For early-stage technology startups seeking to realize their full potential and unleash innovative solutions, an incredible opportunity awaits.

Join MEST Africa for the 5th year of the MEST Africa Challenge to unlock funding, mentorship, and unparalleled opportunities to propel your startup’s success.

This year, MEST is thrilled to bring even more excitement to early-stage entrepreneurs with startups based in Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, Kenya, and South Africa.

As part of this prestigious competition, tech founders stand a chance to win the coveted USD 50,000 in equity, gain global recognition, and become part of MEST Africa’s lifelong supportive community.

Become a part of Africa’s burgeoning tech entrepreneurs and innovators by showcasing your groundbreaking innovation at Africa’s leading startup pitch competition. Take your business to new heights with us!

MEST Africa Challenge (MAC) is a Pan-African pitch competition for early-stage technology startups seeking to ramp up traction and growth.

Launched with the aim of providing a stage for technology startups to raise funding, build industry networks, and gain global visibility, the competition has grown to become a key establishment in Africa’s startup technology industry giving an unprecedented global platform to hundreds of entrepreneurs from all over Africa.

Be bold. Be heard. Be funded.

Your business must be an early-stage technology startup based in at least one of the 5 countries where we will hold the Regional Finals (Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa, Kenya) with the following characteristics:

Monthly Recurring Revenue: A minimum of $5k
Funding raised: Cumulative $1M or less
Years in existence: 3 years and below
Traction: At least 6 months of recurring revenue
Founding team: At least 2 founding team members
Registered in Delaware (This is preferred)

Stages of the competition

Complete an online application
Submit a pitch deck and a 3mins Video pitch
Selection of the top 10 finalists from each country
Virtual Regional Finals competition held for each country
Selection of top 5 startups (1 from each country)
The top 5 compete at the grand finale and Demo Day

Grand Prizes

USD 50,000 in equity investment, access to MEST Portfolio resources and strategic partnerships, 1-year professional business coaching in addition to other benefits and prizes for the main winner and Regional Finalists.

Timelines