Deadline: January 31, 2026
The African Impact Challenge – Building Global Businesses from Africa to the World is now open for applications! This prestigious initiative empowers African entrepreneurs to build scalable, technology-enabled ventures that solve local challenges while positioning for global impact. Through this program, innovators will gain access to funding, mentorship, training, and international market opportunities designed to accelerate business growth and sustainability.
About the African Impact Challenge
The African Impact Challenge is a venture support program dedicated to identifying and empowering early to mid-stage African founders with innovative, impact-driven business ideas. The initiative focuses on equipping entrepreneurs with the skills, networks, and resources required to expand their ventures beyond the African market.
Since its inception, the Challenge has supported hundreds of African founders in developing scalable ventures and gaining access to global markets. It is a flagship initiative of the African Impact Initiative, run in partnership with the University of Toronto and the Mastercard Foundation.
Program Benefits
1. Funding Support
Selected ventures stand the chance to receive grant funding or investment capital of up to CAD $25,000, depending on performance and stage. This funding supports business validation, development, and expansion into international markets.
2. Capacity Building and Coaching
Entrepreneurs will engage in virtual, self-paced training sessions and intensive bootcamps aimed at strengthening their business models, leadership capabilities, and execution strategies.
3. Global Market Access and Networking
Participants will gain direct access to international markets, connecting with investors, industry experts, and global partners. Some may also benefit from fully funded international engagements, including flights and accommodation.
4. Post-Program Investor Support
Beyond the initial phase, selected founders will receive continued guidance on investor readiness, helping them refine their pitches and attract additional funding opportunities.
5. Tailored Growth Tracks
The Challenge features four growth tracks, enabling entrepreneurs to join based on their venture’s maturity stage:
- Explorer Track: For idea validation and early-stage planning.
- Builder Track: For founders developing their MVP and seeking early traction.
- Momentum Track: For ventures with customers or early revenue aiming to scale operations.
- Scale Track: For businesses preparing for expansion and strategic partnerships.
Eligibility Criteria
The Challenge targets African entrepreneurs under 39 years old who are:
- Based in Africa.
- Building technology-enabled, impact-driven ventures.
- Committed to actively participating throughout the program duration.
- Passionate about developing sustainable solutions that can thrive locally and globally.
2026 Program Streams
The 2026 edition introduces two exciting participation streams:
Health Entrepreneurship (HENT) – Pan-African Stream
Open to innovators across Africa, this stream focuses on startups developing technology-based health solutions that drive measurable impact.
Country Innovation (CI) – Nigeria Focus
This year’s country focus is Nigeria, spotlighting scalable ventures that tackle pressing challenges through innovation and entrepreneurship.
Application Details
- Application Deadline: January 31, 2026
- Program Duration: 2026 Cohort
- Location: Africa (virtual and hybrid formats may apply)
Interested applicants are encouraged to apply early to secure their spot in this transformative program.
Why You Should Apply
The African Impact Challenge – Building Global Businesses from Africa to the World offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to connect with global networks, gain financial support, and position your venture for international expansion. Whether you are just starting out or ready to scale, this challenge provides the tools and community needed to bring your vision to life.
How to Apply
📌 Click here to apply for the African Impact Challenge
📖 Click here to read more about the programme
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review.
