12 finalists. 1 winner. One stage in front of the world's top investors, operators, and capital allocators — backed by Beyond Africa Fund. Selected from 500+ applications across AI, fintech, and frontier tech.
The prize
Winner takes all. One founder. One check. Plus what really matters — intros, distribution, and a stage in front of the people who can actually move your company forward.
Who can apply
At least one founder of African heritage, building anywhere in the world.
Less than $5M raised. Live product or strong technical proof.
Targeting markets beyond a single country — or already operating cross-border.
AI, fintech, frontier infrastructure, healthtech, or global B2B software.
The process
Submit your deck, traction, and a 90-second video. ~15 minutes.
Top 50 invited to a 20-minute virtual screening with judges.
12 founders announced and matched with a pitch coach.
Live 5-minute pitch + 5-minute judge Q&A in front of 1,000+ peers and investors.
The judges
A panel of operators and investors who have written checks into category-defining African companies and global category leaders.
Judging criteria
Why you. Why now. The unfair edge — technical, cultural, or strategic — only you have.
Real wedge into a real, large market. Not a nice-to-have. Not a feature.
Evidence the world has voted: revenue, retention, users, or hard technical proof.
You have 5 minutes on the Main Stage. Make it count.
FAQ
No. At least one founder must be of African heritage. You can be operating from anywhere in the world.
The winner receives a $10,000 investment from Beyond Africa Fund. Terms (SAFE or equity, valuation cap, etc.) are standard and shared with finalists during the brief diligence window between the announcement and the live pitch. No tricks, no off-market terms.
Yes. All 12 finalists receive complimentary VIP passes, including the private VIP dinner on November 6.
Finalist pitches are live in front of attendees and may be recorded for our official channels. We never share confidential numbers without your permission.
Yes, as long as you meet the current eligibility criteria.
No. Applying is free.
Applications close September 15, 2026
Apply in under 15 minutes. We review every application personally.
