The AfricaTech Award has officially launched its 2026 call for applications, marking the 10th anniversary edition of VivaTech in Paris.
For four years, this initiative has recognized startups striving to transform the African business landscape across all industries.
This award aims to showcase the continent’s abundance of talent and create new opportunities for emerging innovators.
By providing a global platform, the organizers hope to place a prominent spotlight on African solutions to global challenges.
Six finalists will be selected to travel to France from June 17–20, 2026, to pitch their products onstage.
These finalists will face a jury of top decision-makers and investors during the high-profile VivaTech event.
Benefits of the AfricaTech Award
The top 30 applicants will receive a VivaTech Startup Pass, while the six finalists will gain a free booth in the AfricaTech Village.
AfricaTech Award finalists also receive a comprehensive invitation package that includes return flights and four VivaTech passes.
Beyond immediate exposure, the program schedules one-to-one meetings with venture capitalists and offers professional mentoring for the ultimate winner. The winner will also be honored during the VivaTech Global Awards Ceremony.
Application requirements
To be eligible for this opportunity, a startup must have its main office located in Africa.
Furthermore, the company must offer a technical solution or product specifically designed to address the African market.
Applicants must have already demonstrated a level of financial maturity by raising more than USD 150,000.
This requirement ensures that the participating startups have a proven track record of scaling and commercial traction.
The selection process focuses on innovation, impact and scalability, alongside the strength of the team’s expertise.
AfricaTech Award judges will evaluate the relevance of the tech solution and its potential to solve significant economic or social problems.
Deadline
Entrepreneurs must submit their digital applications through the official portal no later than February 16, 2026. Late submissions will not be considered for the 2026 cohort heading to Paris. Visit the AfricaTech Award call for nomination page for more details. Explore more global calls on our Opportunities page.
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