Applications are Open for the MEST Africa Challenge 2024

The Meltwater Entrepreneurial School of Technology (MEST Africa), in collaboration with the Norwegian Embassy, has announced the launch of the 6th edition of the MEST Africa Challenge (MAC). 

This edition seeks to identify and support exceptional AgriTech entrepreneurs who are addressing critical agricultural challenges in West Africa.

MEST Africa Challenge 2024 Open To West African Markets

MEST will provide the winning startup with investment capital, coaching and access to a global network of resources and partners as they build and scale successful businesses that add value to African economies and livelihoods. 

The school of technology will also offer winners US$50,000 in equity funding. The challenge offers agri-tech startups the opportunity to “Find Their Soil” by providing critical support, funding, and mentorship. 

The MEST Africa Challenge 2024 is open to startups from key West African markets. These include Benin, Cape Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mauritania, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Mali, and Togo.

Ashwin Ravichandran, portfolio advisor at MEST Africa, said, “Find Your Soil” is a call to action for agri-tech innovators to discover the ideal environment where their vision can flourish. 

Through the MEST Africa Challenge, we aim to support this ecosystem by providing the necessary resources, visibility, and strategic support for these entrepreneurs to thrive.”

Eligibility Criteria for MEST Africa Challenge 2024

● 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

Also Read: African Tech Startups Raised $780 million in the First Half of 2024, the Lowest Funding Since 2020

Timeline For MEST Africa Challenge 2024

Applications will open on 26th August 2024 and close on 4th October 2024. Top 20 participants will be chosen on 14th October 2024. There will also be a virtual semi finals on 29th October 2024 and 30th October 2024. Additionally, the finals will be in-person. Date will be communicated later. 

MEST Africa is committed to fostering job creation and economic growth across the continent through software entrepreneurship. By offering specialized tech entrepreneurial training and investment opportunities, the organization empowers Africa’s brightest minds to build and scale impactful businesses.

Interested AgriTech entrepreneurs can learn more and apply here.

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