Deadline: Ongoing
The KPMG Female Founders in Africa Competition 2026 is now open for applications. This prestigious continent-wide initiative is designed to spotlight and support exceptional women entrepreneurs leading tech-enabled businesses across Africa.
Organised by KPMG, the competition provides a powerful platform for female founders to gain visibility, connect with investors, access mentorship, and accelerate business growth.
If you are a woman building an innovative, technology-driven business in Africa, the KPMG Female Founders in Africa Competition 2026 presents a significant opportunity to scale your venture and expand your network.
About the Competition
The competition forms part of KPMG’s broader commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs globally. It seeks to identify high-potential, tech-enabled businesses founded and led by women across African countries.
Selected participants will advance through regional and continental pitching stages, gaining exposure to investors, business leaders and ecosystem partners.
This initiative is ideal for female founders seeking:
- Growth capital opportunities
- Strategic mentorship
- International exposure
- Expanded professional networks
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the KPMG Female Founders in Africa Competition 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- The business must be registered in the country or region from which the applicant is applying.
- The company must be female-owned (majority ownership by a woman).
- The business must have been operational for at least one year.
- The venture must be tech-enabled, tech-driven or tech-led.
- The company must not be majority-owned by a large corporate entity.
- The applicant must be able to pitch in English.
- If shortlisted, the applicant must be available to participate in semi-final and final pitch events in 2026.
Applicants should ensure they meet all criteria before submitting their application.
Benefits of Participating
Finalists and winners of the competition stand to gain substantial benefits, including:
1. Mentorship from KPMG Professionals
Access to structured mentorship programmes designed to strengthen business strategy, governance and growth planning.
2. Investor Deal Opportunities
Exposure to potential investors and funding networks across Africa and beyond.
3. Brand Visibility and Recognition
Increased media and ecosystem visibility, positioning the founder and business as industry leaders.
4. Strategic Networking
Opportunities to connect with fellow founders, partners, investors and innovation ecosystem stakeholders.
Participation alone provides invaluable experience in pitching, investor engagement and strategic positioning.
Competition Structure
The competition typically involves:
- Application and shortlisting stage
- Regional or country-level pitch rounds
- Semi-final pitches
- Continental final pitch event
Shortlisted founders must be prepared to present their businesses to a judging panel and demonstrate innovation, scalability and impact.
Application Timeline
Applications are currently open. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply early to avoid last-minute submission challenges.
Participants should be ready to provide supporting documentation and detailed information about their business model, traction, innovation and growth potential.
Why You Should Apply
The KPMG Female Founders in Africa Competition 2026 is more than a pitch event—it is a growth platform. For women building scalable technology businesses in Africa, this competition offers:
- Credibility and validation
- Access to capital conversations
- Strategic advisory support
- Continental exposure
If your business is innovative, impact-driven and growth-oriented, this competition could be a transformative milestone.
How to Apply
For full programme details and application guidelines, visit the official sources below:
Need Support With Your Application?
If you require professional support with proposal drafting, refining or review, contact us for proposal drafting, refining and review. Expert guidance can significantly strengthen your application and improve your chances of success.
Apply early and position your business for continental recognition through the KPMG Female Founders in Africa Competition 2026.
