AfCFTA Digital Innovation Challenge

Who Can Apply?

This challenge is open to:

✅ African innovators and entrepreneurs aged 18 – 35.

✅ Individuals, teams, startups, and enterprises with a digital solution that addresses cross-border trade challenges for MSMEs.

✅ Early-stage (for example Ideation and Prototype Phase) or growth-stage (Operational and Scaling Phase) solutions.

Focus Areas

Applicants should propose digital solutions that support MSMEs in one or more of the following areas:

🔹 Market Intelligence & E-Commerce Platforms – B2B/B2C platforms, trade data solutions, and market information providers.

🔹 E-Commerce & Logistics – Warehousing, last-mile delivery, and digital aggregation of goods/services.

🔹 Cross-Border Professional Services – Leveraging digital tools for the delivery of services across African borders.

🔹 Digital Financial Services – Fintech innovations in payments, investments, insurance, and trade finance.

🔹 Trade & Investment Facilitation – Digital tools to streamline trade procedures, formalities, and compliance.

🔹 Entrepreneurial Skills Development – Digital training, capacity-building, and mentorship platforms for MSMEs.

Selection Process and Criteria

All applications will be assessed based on the following:

✅ Uniqueness of the Innovation

✅ The potential for expansion or scaling of the solution into multiple African markets?

✅ Impact on addressing cross-border trade barriers for MSMEs.

✅ Promoting intra-African trade and economic integration.

Timelines & Stages

🚀 Applications Open: 26th March 2025

📅 Application Deadline: 18th April 2025

🎯 Selection of 50 Finalists – Shortlisted innovators will join a capacity-building program on developing a business plan and/or pitch for their innovation

🏆 Top 10 Finalists selected – Finalists will present their pitches at the AfCFTA Digital Trade Forum in May 2025.

🥇 Top five (5) Winners Announced and to pitch at BIASHARA AFRIKA 2025

Winning innovators will receive recognition, funding, mentorship, and access to finance opportunities.

Why Participate?

🌍 Showcase your innovative solution at high-profile AfCFTA forum event

💡 Gain mentorship and Capacity from industry leaders, investors, and more

📈 Unlock funding and partnerships to scale your innovation and business proposal across Africa

🔗 Networking with key stakeholders in the digital trade ecosystem.