The AfricaTech Award 2026 is a high-level recognition program for African-based startups, taking place during the 10th edition of VivaTech in Paris from June 17–20, 2026. The award targets innovative startups that have raised over USD 150,000 and provide solutions specifically addressing the African market. Benefits range from event passes for the Top 30 to a fully-funded invitation package (including flights and booths) for the six finalists. The program evaluates candidates based on innovation, impact, scalability, team profile, and business model. Applications close on February 16, 2026, offering a global stage for African talent to connect with top-tier investors and decision-makers.
AfricaTech Award 2026 for African Startups Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
| Host Country | France |
| Study Abroad | Startup Exhibition in Paris |
| Category | Entrepreneurship Awards |
| Eligible Countries | All African Countries (Main office in Africa) |
| Reward | Fully-Funded Trip, Booth, & Mentorship |
| Key Criteria | Minimum USD 150K raised & Market Scalability |
| Application Deadline | February 16, 2026 |
AfricaTech Award 2026 for African Startups Details
The AfricaTech Award 2026 marks the 4th year of recognizing startups that are transforming the business landscape across the African continent. Hosted at VivaTech, Europe’s biggest startup and tech event, this award aims to create a prominent spotlight for African innovators, connecting them with a global ecosystem of investors and corporate leaders.
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For this 10th anniversary edition of VivaTech, the award seeks startups from all industries that demonstrate a high degree of innovation and a proven ability to scale. The program is designed to showcase the abundance of talent in Africa while facilitating new growth opportunities through intensive networking and professional visibility in the “AfricaTech Village.”
Scholarship Details
The AfricaTech Award 2026 is open exclusively to startups headquartered in Africa that offer products or solutions addressing the continent’s specific market needs. It focuses on startups that have moved past the seed stage, requiring a minimum of USD 150,000 in previous funding. The core philosophy is to identify tech-driven solutions with significant social, economic, or environmental impact that are ready for international exposure.
Benefits of the AfricaTech Award 2026 for African Startups
Tier 1: Winner & Finalist Grand Prize
- Pitch & Awards: The ultimate winner pitches on the main stage during the VivaTech Global Awards Ceremony.
- Travel Package: The six finalists receive a fully-funded invitation package including round-trip flights and four VivaTech passes.
- Exhibition Space: A free professional booth within the dedicated AfricaTech Village at the event in Paris.
Tier 2: Finalist Professional Networking
- Investor Access: One-to-one scheduled meetings with top-tier Venture Capitalists (VCs) and decision-makers.
- Expert Mentoring: Winners receive direct mentoring from selected jury members to refine their business strategy.
Tier 3: Top 30 Startup Recognition
- Event Access: The Top 30 ranked startups receive one VivaTech Startup Pass to attend the four-day event.
- Visibility: Strong brand visibility across the VivaTech platform and promotional materials.
Eligibility Requirements for the AfricaTech Award 2026 for African Startups
- Academic/Leadership: Evaluation of the team profile, including expertise, size, academic background, and entrepreneurship track record.
- Study Status (Financial Maturity): The startup must have successfully raised more than USD 150,000 in capital.
- Visa Status/Location: The startup must have its main office located in an African country.
- Program Admission: The solution must specifically address the African market and demonstrate a proven product-market fit.
How to Apply for the AfricaTech Award 2026 for African Startups (Step by Step)
- Submit Online Application: Complete the detailed application form before the February 16 deadline, providing data on traction and technology.
- Technical Selection: An expert committee evaluates the submission against criteria like innovation level and business model sustainability.
- Finalist Notification: The top six startups are selected and invited to the AfricaTech Village in Paris.
- Live Pitch Competition: Finalists pitch their products onstage at VivaTech 2026 in front of an international jury.
Application Deadline: February 16, 2026
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Does the startup need to be in a specific industry?
No, the AfricaTech Award 2026 is open to startups from all industries as long as they are tech-enabled.
2. Can I apply if my startup is based in Europe?
No, the eligibility criteria strictly require the startup’s main office to be located in Africa.
3. What is the minimum funding required to apply?
Your startup must have raised more than USD 150,000 to be eligible for this specific award.
4. Are the flights to Paris covered for finalists?
Yes, the six finalists receive an invitation package that includes their flight costs.
5. How many team members can attend the event?
Finalists are provided with four VivaTech passes, allowing four members to attend and staff the booth.
6. What is the “AfricaTech Village”?
It is a dedicated exhibition zone within VivaTech Paris specifically designed to showcase African tech innovation.
7. Is the award open to undergraduate students?
While the team may include students, the award is for registered startups with established traction and funding.
8. What does “Scalability” mean in the selection criteria?
Scalability refers to your market sizing potential and your geographic ambition to grow across the continent.
9. When will the 10th edition of VivaTech take place?
The event is scheduled for June 17–20, 2026, in Paris, France.
10. Do I need to pay for the exhibition booth?
No, the six finalists receive a free booth as part of their invitation package.
