Africa Tech Startup Forum

The Africa Tech Startup Forum is a Market Access and Acceleration Program designed to prepare, train, expose, and connect tech ventures with opportunities. The program takes place virtually and in-person, aiming to showcase the exceptional tech innovations emerging from Africa and provide them with the platform to thrive. Collaborating with experts from Africa and around the globe, will create an ecosystem that nurtures and boosts tech ventures.

The Africa Tech Startup Forum is funded by the Korea Africa Economic Cooperation (KOAFEC) Trust Fund through the African Development Bank (AfDB)’s Innovation and Entrepreneurship Lab. It serves as a dynamic hub for innovation, collaboration, and growth within the burgeoning tech landscape of the African continent.

About the program

The incubation program, a cornerstone of the forum, provides a nurturing environment for early-stage tech startups. Through this initiative, entrepreneurs gain access to specialized resources, mentorship, and collaborative workspaces, fostering the development of groundbreaking ideas and the transformation of concepts into viable products and services.

The B2B matchmaking platform within the forum facilitates strategic connections between startups and established businesses. This creates a dynamic marketplace where innovative solutions meet industry needs, fostering mutually beneficial partnerships that drive economic growth and technological advancement.

Investor sourcing is another crucial facet of the forum, connecting promising startups with potential investors eager to support groundbreaking ventures. By bridging the gap between entrepreneurs and investors, the forum plays a pivotal role in securing the funding necessary for startups to scale their operations and bring their innovations to market.

What are the Opportunities

1. Training Sprint through UVUA Africa 

2. B2B Matchmaking with Investors, Buyers and Industry Experts by CATALYZE

3. Top 20 Tech Ventures travel to Seoul, Korea for a 2 week study tour and attendance at COME-UP KOREA

Eligibility

Tech Ventures across all industries including ESO’s (Accelerators and Incubators) and Startups

Please note that while key industries for our program include AgriTech, Fintech, and HealthTech, we encourage startups from all other tech verticals to apply. Each application will be considered based on the merit of the product.

The following countries are eligible to apply:

• Kenya
• Morocco
• Rwanda
• Egypt
• Uganda
• Nigeria
• South Africa
• Ghana

Training Sprint 

UVU Africa proudly serves as the designated training partner for the AFRICA TECH STARTUP FORUM. Committed to shaping a future-ready and inclusive society, UVU Africa leverages innovation and technology to drive the growth of a diverse digital economy.