The Tech FoundHER Africa Challenge 2025, powered by Naspers and Prosus, and delivered in partnership with Lionesses of Africa, is a premier competition aimed at scaling women-led tech businesses across Africa. Women founders and co-founders of tech-enabled startups are encouraged to apply for a chance to win equity-free grants, mentorship, and visibility within investor and customer networks.

The challenge offers grants of up to $100,000 to be used to further grow the winning startups, helping to drive Africa's next wave of women-led tech leadership.

PRIZE DETAILS

• Grant: Up to $100,000 in equity-free grants
• Mentorship: Tailored mentorship from experienced operators in the tech industry
• Networking: Access to investor and customer networks for strategic partnerships and exposure 
• Pitch Opportunity: Selected finalists will pitch live and be considered for funding and partnership opportunities
• Visibility: Featured on global platforms to gain exposure and market recognition

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

To be eligible, businesses must meet the following requirements:

• Tech or tech-enabled startup
• At least one woman founder in a leadership position
• Revenue generating with proven market validation
• Operating in one or more African countries
• Registered company in any African country in good standing
• Applicant must be 18 years or older
• Must identify as a woman or co-founder in a woman-led business

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

• Business Information: Name, email, website, social media handles, and business license/corporation number
• Pitch Video: 3-minute video (including the founder on camera)
• Business Profile: Detailed overview of business, solution, target market, and customer needs
• Growth plans: Business goals, projected growth, and funding requirements
• Innovation: How the business demonstrates innovation and what makes it stand out in the market

APPLICATION TIMELINE

• Applications Open: September 1, 2025, 09:00 CAT
• Applications Close: September 30, 2025, 11:59 CAT
• Finalists Announced: October 10, 2025
• Virtual Semi-finals: Week of October 27, 2025
• Final Demo Day (In-person): November 19, 2025, Johannesburg, South Africa

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

• Pitch Deck: PDF or PowerPoint
• Company Registration Documents: Proof of legal standing
• Financial Proof: Evidence of revenue generation (bank statements, MRR reports)
• Founder Bios/LinkedIn Profiles: Information on the founding team

Additional Information

• Pitch Language: All submissions and pitches must be in English
• Grant Disbursement: Grants will be awarded to winners following compliance verification

WHY APPLY?

• Receive up to $100,000 to accelerate your business without giving up equity
• Get personalized coaching from leading industry experts
• Gain global visibility in the presence of investors, corporates, and key stakeholders in the tech space
• Access to exclusive investor and customer networks for partnerships
• Be part of a growing movement empowering women tech founders in Africa

HOW TO APPLY

• Complete the application form on the Tech FoundHER Africa Challenge Website
•  Upload your pitch video, business details, and required documents

Find out more - Tech FoundHer Africa challenge

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