HBS Africa opens $55,000 startup challenge for 2026

The HBS Africa Business Club has opened applications for its 2026 New Venture Competition, offering early-stage African startups the opportunity to secure seed funding and pitch before a high-profile audience of investors, mentors and industry leaders.

Contents

Aim Funding details Who can apply Requirements Deadline

Aim

The 2026 edition is designed to spotlight high-potential startups with strong market insight and the capacity to create meaningful economic or social impact.
The competition helps founders refine their ideas, strengthen their business models and gain the validation needed to advance toward funding and scale.

Through mentorship and expert engagement, the programme supports entrepreneurs building innovative solutions to local challenges.

Funding details

A total prize pool of $55,000 is available:

$30,000 for first place
$15,000 for second place
$10,000 for third place

Finalists also receive mentorship from seasoned investors, judges and industry experts.
The competition offers significant exposure to more than a thousand conference attendees, increasing opportunities for investment, partnerships and broader visibility.

Who can apply

The competition is open to early-stage startups operating within the African market and demonstrating strong potential for scale. Eligible ventures must show a clear business case, a defined customer need and a pathway to sustainable growth.

Qualification criteria include:

Africa-based or primarily serving African markets.
Fewer than 50 employees.
Under 5 years in operation.
Less than US$1 million in total funding raised.
A viable, scalable business model addressing a local challenge.

Requirements

Applicants must submit a clear and compelling pitch that demonstrates market need, competitive advantage and—where available—early traction. Submissions should clearly outline the problem, the solution and the strategy for achieving growth.

Selected teams must be prepared to participate in mentorship activities, attend pitch sessions and engage fully in the competition’s conference events.