Baobab Network Accelerator Programme for African Startups

Baobab Network provides founders with the early-stage capital and hands-on support they need to unlock growth and build world-class startups: from startup to superstar.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis – so please feel free to apply at any time and someone from the team will be in touch with you. The next accelerator kicks off on 20th November 2023 so to be considered for this please submit your application before 31st October 2023.

Benefits of participation

The Baobab Network helps build and fund Africa’s high-potential startups. You’ll receive $100K to kickstart your company’s growth, transformative accelerator & hands-on venture support, and lifetime access to the networks.

Each accelerator programme starts with 2 weeks of intensive consulting from The Baobab Network, followed by 3 months of hands-on support from the venture partners and the network of partners/experts.

Eligibility Criteria

• You must be a tech accelerator for Africa. It’s okay if your target market is outside the continent, as long as you are based in Africa and are led and run by an African team.
• Startups that have built a minimum viable product (MVP) and have some early traction are preferred. If you are at the idea stage, you should at least have validated market demand for the product or service. The validation can be in the form of sign-ups from users, a client waiting list that can be verified, offline purchases and other types of evidence confirming that customers are willing to pay for your product.
• Any startup that uses technology to solve crucial problems around them will be considered, as well as other tech-enabled solutions like the Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), or other existing technology tools to create efficiencies.
• You must be a for-profit organization.
• Teams are generally preferred to solo founders, but those who don’t have co-founders are still welcome to apply.
• Your tech-creating or tech-enabled business must have the potential to scale. This would usually not include agencies that provide custom website/app development or digital marketing services.
• Note that the Baobab Network takes 12.5% equity in each startup in exchange for the support and services offered throughout the acceleration programme and the $100,000 USD investment.
• Applications and all documents (pitch decks and financial projections) should be in English.

Apply here before 31 October.