The 2026 KPMG Female Founders in Africa Competition is officially open for applications, marking a significant step toward closing the gender gap in the African startup ecosystem.
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Designed to empower women entrepreneurs, this competition seeks ambitious, high-growth ventures that are transforming sectors like technology, health, and agriculture. By providing a platform for female founders to showcase their innovations to global investors and experts, KPMG is fostering a new generation of business leaders ready to elevate the continent’s economic landscape.
If you are a woman leading a tech-driven business with a clear ambition for growth, this competition is your gateway to world-class resources and networking.
KPMG Female Founders in Africa Competition 2026 Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Host Organization | KPMG |
| Category | Entrepreneurship Competition |
| Target Audience | Female-Owned & Led Tech Startups |
| Key Rewards | KPMG Mentorship, Investor Access & Visibility |
| Eligible Countries | African Countries |
| Application Deadline | Not Specified (Ongoing) |
About the KPMG Female Founders in Africa Competition 2026
The KPMG Female Founders in Africa Competition aims to identify and support female-led businesses that demonstrate strong market potential and a passion for innovation. The program is specifically tailored for “tech-enabled,” “tech-driven,” or “tech-led” businesses that have been active for at least one year. Beyond the competition itself, participants gain entry into a vibrant community of founders and experts, ensuring that their entrepreneurial journey is backed by the strategic resources of one of the world’s leading professional services firms.
Benefits of KPMG Female Founders in Africa
- Tier 1 (Professional Growth): Exclusive access to the KPMG Mentorship Programme, providing one-on-one guidance from industry veterans.
- Tier 2 (Capital Access): Direct matching with investors and access to high-stakes investor deals to fuel business expansion.
- Tier 3 (Brand Equity): Significant branding and visibility for your startup through KPMG’s global network and media channels.
- Tier 4 (Community): Continuous engagement within the KPMG founder community, facilitating peer-to-peer learning and regional partnerships.
Eligibility & Requirements for KPMG Female Founders in Africa
- Registration: Must be a registered company in the African country/region where the competition is held.
- Ownership: The business must be female-owned and not majority-owned by a large corporate entity.
- Operational History: The venture must have been active in operation for at least one year.
- Tech Focus: Must be a tech-enabled, tech-driven, or tech-led business.
- Language & Communication: Must be able to conduct all pitches in English.
- Availability: Candidates must be available to pitch at regional semi-finals and the grand final event (expected in 2025/2026).
Step-by-Step Application Guide for KPMG Female Founders in Africa
- Initial Review: Verify that your business meets the “tech-led” and “female-owned” criteria.
- Registration: Visit the official KPMG application portal via the “Apply” link below.
- Data Submission: Complete the application form by submitting supporting details about your company’s growth and market potential.
- Expert Shortlist: Applications will be reviewed by a panel of experts; shortlisted teams will be invited to the pitching events.
- Regional Pitching: Participate in the regional pitching round before a jury of investors.
- Finals Preparation: If selected as a regional winner, prepare for the grand finals to compete for the title of “Best Female Founder.”
- Category Focus: Be prepared to be categorized as an early, growth, or mature venture during the final announcement.
- Follow-up: Monitor your email for invitations to the “other countries” group if your specific region is moved online.
Expert Advice for KPMG Female Founders in Africa (STAR/SMART Methods)
- Use the SMART Method: When describing your business ambition, be Specific about your growth targets and Measurable in your market traction.
- Apply the STAR Technique: During your pitch, describe a Situation (market gap), the Task (the solution needed), the Action (your tech-driven product), and the Result (revenue growth or social impact).
- Focus on Tech-Led Innovation: Clearly articulate how technology is the core driver of your business model rather than just a support tool.
- Demonstrate Ambition: KPMG is looking for “high-growth ventures.” Show that your business model is scalable across different African markets.
- Master Your Pitch: Since pitches must be in English, practice your delivery to ensure your value proposition is clear, concise, and compelling to investors.
Application Deadline: Not Specified (Apply Early)
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Frequently Asked Question (FAQ) for KPMG Female Founders in Africa
Does KPMG take equity in my business? No, the benefits listed are focused on mentorship, visibility, and investor matching.
Can non-tech businesses apply? The business must be at least tech-enabled or tech-led to be eligible.
Is there an application fee? No, applying for the KPMG Female Founders competition is free.
What if I haven’t been in operation for a year? One year of operation is a mandatory requirement for this competition.
What is the reward for winners? Winners receive mentorship, branding, and access to investor networks, categorized by their business stage (early, growth, or mature).
Do I need an IELTS score? No, there is no IELTS requirement, though you must pitch in English.
Is this open to all African countries? Yes, the competition is open to female founders across the African continent.
Who evaluates the pitches? A panel of jury members consisting of investors and industry experts.
How long is the mentorship? The duration varies by year but is designed to provide substantial professional support.
Where can I get more competition alerts? Join the Scholarship Region WhatsApp groups for real-time updates on entrepreneurship opportunities.
