The wait is over—applications for the MEST Africa Challenge (MAC) 2025 officially open on 4th August 2025. This year, the pan-African pitch competition is back with even more at stake: $50,000 in equity funding, investor access, and a chance for startups to join the growing network of founders who have passed through MEST’s ecosystem.
Now in its seventh year, the MEST Africa Challenge has established itself as one of the continent’s most respected launchpads for early-stage startups. From Accra to Nairobi, Lagos to Cape Town, the competition has consistently spotlighted founders solving real problems in African markets.
In 2025, MAC is powered by Absa, a partnership that not only reinforces the credibility of the challenge but also gives participating startups a chance to align with one of Africa’s leading banks. This collaboration is expected to open new doors for founders working on fintech and other bankable solutions.
Why Founders Should Apply
- Equity funding: The winner takes home $50,000 in equity capital, along with support to refine their business model.
- Visibility and access: Finalists pitch in front of investors, corporate executives, and the media.
- Ecosystem leverage: With MEST’s backing—2,000 entrepreneurs trained and over 90 portfolio companies—winners join a proven network.
Key Dates to Note
- Applications open: 4th August 2025
- Applications close: 26th September 2025
- Top 20 announced: 10th October 2025
- Virtual semi-finals: Week of 27th October 2025
- Finals in Cape Town: Week of 24th November 2025
In 2024, Ghana’s own SAYeTECH walked away with the grand prize for its innovative agri-machinery solutions—proof that the competition rewards founders tackling real African challenges with scalable solutions.
Who Can Apply
Early-stage tech startups operating in Africa and building solutions that can scale across borders. This year, there’s added focus on businesses that tie into financial services and technology-driven innovation, given the Absa partnership.
Why This Matters
For many African founders, raising capital is one hurdle; finding the right networks and mentors is another. MAC brings both together. It’s more than a competition—it’s a fast-track into a community of investors, experts, and fellow entrepreneurs who understand what it takes to grow on the continent.
For more information and updates, keep an eye on MEST Africa’s social channels.
Application Link: https://meltwater.org/mac/
