Are you an African tech startup looking for funding, mentorship, and exposure? If yes, then you might want to apply for the MEST Africa Challenge 2023, a pan-African pitch competition that offers a $50,000 equity prize and a place in the MEST Africa incubator of your choice.
What is the MEST Africa Challenge?
The MEST Africa Challenge is an annual event that showcases the best tech startups from Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, Kenya, and South Africa. The challenge is organized by MEST Africa, a 12-month pan-African software and entrepreneurship training program, seed fund, and incubator that helps to launch technology startups across the continent.
The challenge aims to identify and support early-stage technology companies that are solving local problems, creating jobs, and driving innovation. The challenge also provides an opportunity for startups to connect with MEST Africa’s global network of investors, mentors, partners, and alumni.
How to apply for the MEST Africa Challenge?
To apply for the MEST Africa Challenge 2023, you need to meet the following criteria:
- You must be a pre-seed or seed-stage tech startup (operating for less than two years and currently generating income).
- You must be based in Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, Kenya, or South Africa.
- You must have a strong team with at least one technical co-founder.
- You must have a product or service that is scalable and addresses a clear market need.
- You must have some traction or proof of concept.
If you meet these criteria, you can submit your application online through the competition’s website before October 3, 2023. You will need to provide information about your startup’s vision, mission, value proposition, target market, revenue model, traction, and impact.
What are the benefits of the MEST Africa Challenge?
The benefits of the MEST Africa Challenge are:
- Exposure: You will get a chance to pitch your startup to a panel of judges and an audience of investors, media, and industry experts. You will also get featured on various platforms and publications.
- Mentorship: You will receive feedback and guidance from MEST Africa’s experienced mentors and trainers. You will also get access to MEST Africa’s online resources and curriculum.
- Community: You will join MEST Africa’s vibrant community of over 2000 entrepreneurs from across the continent. You will also get to network with other startups, alumni, partners, and stakeholders.
- Investment: The winning startup will receive an equity investment of $50,000 from MEST Africa. The runner-up will receive a $25,000 equity investment. Both startups will also get a place in the MEST Africa incubator of their choice (Accra, Lagos, Nairobi, Cape Town, or Dakar).
What are the stages of the MEST Africa Challenge?
The stages of the MEST Africa Challenge are:
- Application: You need to submit your application online before October 3, 2023.
- Screening: Your application will be reviewed by MEST Africa’s team and partners. You will be notified if you are shortlisted for the next stage.
- Pitching: You will be invited to pitch your startup in English at a regional event in your country. Two finalists will be selected from each country to proceed to the final stage.
- Demo Day: The 10 finalists from across the continent will attend the MEST Africa Demo Day in Accra, Ghana on December 1st, 2023. They will pitch their startups again on a global stage for the ultimate prize of $50,000 in equity investment and a place in the MEST Africa incubator.
Why should you apply for the MEST Africa Challenge?
The MEST Africa Challenge is a great opportunity for African tech startups to showcase their potential and gain access to valuable resources and support. The challenge is not only about winning money but also about learning new skills, gaining exposure, building relationships, and joining a community of like-minded entrepreneurs.
If you are an African tech startup with a scalable solution that can make a positive impact on your society and economy, then you should apply for the MEST Africa Challenge 2023. You might be the next winner of this prestigious competition!
