2026 KPMG Female Founders in Africa

The 2026 KPMG Female Founders in Africa Competition is delighted to invite applications from dynamic female entrepreneurs across the continent. In a world marked by ever-evolving global dynamics, we are seeking resilient and ambitious ventures – owned and led by women – across a diverse array of sectors, including technology, health, agriculture, and beyond.

If you are a female founder with an innovative business model and an unwavering commitment to driving positive transformation within your community, we want to hear from you. Apply now to join this year’s competition and take the next bold step in your entrepreneurial journey, showing resilience in the face of shifting global realities.

Application process

• Call for applications  
• Submission of supporting details
• Shortlist selection by a panel of experts, inviting teams to the pitching event (The organizers reserve the right to move the competitors to the online “other countries” group and have them compete there) 
• Regional pitching to a panel of jury (Investors) and announcement of regional winners
• Pitching finals for regional winners and announcement of “Best female-founder” for early, growth, and mature ventures

Benefits of the competition

• Access to the KPMG mentorship programme
• Access to the investors’ deals
• Branding and visibility of your startup
• Access to our community engagements 

Eligibility Criteria:

• Be a registered company in the country/region where the country/region final is being held
• Must be female-owned 
• Have been active in operation for at least one year
• Be either a tech-enabled, tech-driven or tech-led business
• Not be majority-owned by a large corporate
• Be able to conduct all pitches in English
• Be available to pitch at a country or regional event for the semi-final and final in the timeline outlined by the country of origin (if applicable).
• If selected as a finalist, be available to pitch at the Finals in 2026.