Apply Now for the MEST Africa Challenge
The Meltwater Entrepreneurial School of Technology (MEST Africa) (www.Meltwater.org), in partnership with the Norwegian Embassy, is pleased to announce the commencement of the 6th edition of the MEST Africa Challenge (MAC). This year’s initiative aims to discover and support outstanding AgriTech entrepreneurs who are tackling significant agricultural issues in West Africa.
In the fast-changing landscape of AgriTech, innovation requires conducive conditions to thrive. Although many African entrepreneurs have ambitious visions, they frequently encounter obstacles in obtaining the essential resources and networks needed to realize their ideas. MAC 2024 aims to address this challenge by providing startups the chance to “Find Their Soil,” offering vital support, funding, and mentorship.
“‘Find Your Soil’ serves as a rallying cry for AgriTech innovators to identify the optimal environment for their visions to prosper. Through the MEST Africa Challenge, we strive to enhance this ecosystem by supplying the necessary resources, visibility, and strategic assistance for these entrepreneurs to succeed,” stated Ashwin Ravichandran, Portfolio Advisor at MEST Africa.
MEST Africa Challenge is dedicated to promoting job creation and economic development throughout the continent via software entrepreneurship. By providing specialized training in tech entrepreneurship and investment opportunities, the organization empowers Africa’s most talented individuals to establish and expand impactful enterprises.
Focus and Prizes – MEST Africa Challenge
- The MEST Africa Challenge 2024, focused on the AgriTech sector, invites startups from prominent West African markets, including Benin, Cape Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mauritania, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Mali, and Togo.
- The victorious startup will be awarded $50,000 in equity funding, along with access to MEST’s extensive global network, facilitating valuable partnerships, mentorship, and investment opportunities to enhance their growth and international reach.
Previous awards – MEST Africa Challenge
- Since its inception, MEST has invested over $30 million into training more than 2,000 entrepreneurs and has supported the launch of 90 early-stage tech startups across sectors including AgriTech, FinTech, SaaS, eCommerce, Digital Media, and Healthcare.
- This year presents an unparalleled opportunity for AgriTech entrepreneurs to “Find Their Soil” and take their businesses to the next level.
Timeline – MEST Africa Challenge
- Applications open on 26th August 2024
- Applications close on 4th October 2024
- Top 20 Participants chosen on 14th October 2024
- Virtual semi finals on 29th October 2024 and 30th October 2024
- In-person finals date TBA
Eligibility – MEST Africa Challenge
- Early-stage technology startup
- Monthly Recurring Revenue: A minimum of $5k
- Funding raised: $0 to $1M cumulative
- Years in existence: 3 years and below
- Traction: At least 6 months of recurring revenue
- Founding team: At least 2 founding team members
- Registered in Delaware (This is preferred)
- Any industry
- Any business model (B2B, B2C, B2B2C, B2G etc…)
- All participants must pitch in English
Application – MEST Africa Challenge
- Interested AgriTech entrepreneurs can learn more and apply MEST Africa Challenge official website here
- Deadline is October 4, 2024
