The African Impact Initiative has launched a global search for daring early innovators to join the latest cohort of the African Impact Challenge.
This program aims to support entrepreneurs in building market-shaping, globally competitive businesses that solve critical African challenges.
To date, the initiative has trained over 7,000 founders and funded more than 100 businesses across 46 countries, including Ghana, Kenya, and Egypt.
The African Impact Challenge focuses on two primary tracks: the Pan-African Health Entrepreneurship (HENT) stream and the Country Innovation (CI) stream.
While the HENT stream supports health-tech ventures from any country in Africa, the CI stream focuses on a specific nation each year.
For 2026, the Country Innovation track is dedicated to supporting scalable ventures across any sector specifically in Nigeria.
Funding and benefits
Participants in the challenge receive track-based venture funding, with guaranteed amounts ranging from $5,000 CAD to $25,000 CAD depending on the startup’s stage.
Additional capital may be available based on program performance and growth during the accelerator period.
The African Impact Challenge provides a 7-week self-paced venture support bootcamp and access to an accelerator program featuring tailored workshops and mentorship.
Founders also gain access to a global network of innovators and strategic partners like the University of Toronto.
Beyond financial aid, the initiative offers funded international market exposure, which includes covered flights and accommodations.
Startups can also leverage market access and partnerships to acquire customers and secure vital go-to-market partners.
Application requirements and eligibility
The challenge is open to young Africans under the age of 39 who are currently living in Africa.
Applicants must demonstrate a full-time commitment to building their venture and a desire to solve critical problems through technology.
Preference is given to innovative business models that are scalable and target “non-consumption” by increasing accessibility and affordability.
Ventures do not need to be legally registered at the time of application and can be submitted by solo founders or teams.
The program supports startups at various stages, from raw ideas with no revenue to established companies earning over $100,000 USD annually.
Each stage receives specific resources, such as validation of problem-solution fit for early ideas or global market access for high-growth ventures.
Deadline
Ambitious founders must act quickly to secure their spot in the next cohort before the application window closes. The final deadline for submissions to both the HENT and CI streams is January 31, 2026.
Visit the African Impact Challenge call page to apply. Explore our global opportunities page for more.
Summary not available at this time.
