APPLY: MEST Africa Challenge 2024 for Tech Start-Ups in West Africa ($50,000 in Equity)

Applications are open for the  MEST Africa Challenge 2024 for Tech Start-Ups in West Africa with $50,000 up for grabs. Apply Below:

When is the Application Deadline:

The application deadline for the APPLY: MEST Africa Challenge 2024 for Tech Start-Ups in West Africa ($50,000 in Equity) is October 4, 2024.

Tell Me About The MEST Africa Challenge 2024 for Tech Start-Ups:

As MEST continues to deepen her influence on Africa’s tech landscape, the MEST Africa Challenge (MAC) remains Africa’s premier pitch competition for Africa’s emerging tech entrepreneurs, bringing together relevant stakeholders all across the continent and globe to learn more about the happenings on the tech scene. This year will mark the 6th edition of MAC. MEST will provide the winning startup with investment capital, coaching and access to a global network of resources and partners as they build and scale successful businesses that add value to African economies and livelihoods. Additionally, for the first time, MAC will also place a sectoral emphasis on agri-tech,  recognizing its immense potential to drive sustainable development and economic growth in Africa.

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Which Fields are Eligible?

All fields 

Type:

Grant

Who Can Apply For The MEST Africa Challenge 2024 for Tech Start-Ups?

Also, applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:

• Early-stage Agritech startup
• Monthly Recurring Revenue: A minimum of $5k
• Funding raised: $0 to $1M cumulative
• Years in existence: 3 years and below
• Traction: At least 6 months of recurring revenue
• Must be operating in one of the 14 MAC countries (Benin, Cape Verde, Côte D’Ivoire, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mauritania, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Mali and Togo)
• Founding team: At least 2 founding team members
• Registered in Delaware (This is preferred)
• Any business model (B2B, B2C, B2B2C, B2G etc…)
• All participants must pitch in English

Which Countries Are Eligible?

The following countries are eligible:

• Benin
• Cape Verde
• Côte D’Ivoire
• Gambia
• Ghana
• Guinea
• Guinea-Bissau
• Liberia
• Mauritania
• Nigeria
• Senegal
• Sierra Leone
• Mali
• Togo

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Where will the Award be Taken?

Africa 

How Many Awards?

Not specified

What is the Benefit of the Award?

Additionally, successful applicants will benefit $50,000 in equity investment, access to MEST Portfolio resources and strategic partnerships, and 1 year of professional business coaching in addition to other benefits and prizes for the overall winner.

How Long Will the Award Last?

1 year 

How to Apply:

To begin your application, click this link. Also, note that the application is in 5 stages:

• Stage 1: Online application
• Stage 2: Selection of Top 20 semi-finalists
• Stage 3: Virtual semi-finals (Top 20 applicants)
• Stage 4: Selection of Top 5 finalists
• Stage 5: Final Demo Day in Accra

Visit the Award Webpage for Details