Applications are now open for the KPMG Female Founders in Africa Competition 2026, a high-profile startup competition designed to support and elevate women-led tech startups across Africa.
If you are building a tech-enabled, tech-driven, or tech-led business, this is an opportunity to gain mentorship, investor exposure, brand visibility, and continental recognition.
KPMG is seeking ambitious female founders operating in sectors such as:
- Fintech
- Healthtech
- Agritech
- Edtech
- Climate tech
- E-commerce
- AI and digital platforms
The competition supports scalable ventures that demonstrate innovation, resilience, and strong growth potential.
Who Should Apply?
This competition is ideal for:
- Female tech founders in Africa
- Women-led startups seeking investor access
- Early-stage, growth-stage, or mature tech ventures
- Entrepreneurs building scalable digital solutions
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be a registered company in the country/region where the competition is held
- Be female-owned and led
- Have operated for at least one year
- Be a tech-enabled, tech-driven, or tech-led business
- Not be majority-owned by a large corporation
- Be able to pitch in English
- Be available for the regional semi-finals and the 2026 continental finals
What You Gain
-
Access to KPMG Mentorship
Direct engagement with industry leaders and business advisors.
-
Investor & Deal Exposure
Opportunity to connect with investors and funding networks across Africa.
-
Startup Visibility & Brand Positioning
Position your startup on a respected continental platform backed by KPMG.
-
Continental Pitch Opportunity
Regional winners compete at the Africa Finals for the title of:
Best Female Founder – Early, Growth, or Mature Stage
ALSO APPLY FOR:
WE (Women Entrepreneurs) Empower UN SDG Challenge 2026 for Women Social Entrepreneurs
Why This Competition Matters for Women in Tech
Women-led tech startups in Africa often face:
- Funding gaps
- Limited investor access
- Reduced media visibility
The KPMG Female Founders in Africa Competition directly addresses these barriers by connecting founders to mentorship, capital pathways, and strategic networks.
If you’re looking for a startup pitch competition in Africa that supports women entrepreneurs, this is one of the most credible platforms available in 2026.
Application Process
- Submit your online application
- Provide supporting business documentation
- Shortlisting by an expert panel
- Regional pitching before investors
- Continental Finals and award announcement
For enquiries: go-fmafricaprivateen@kpmg.com
Application Deadline
February 28, 2026
Apply for the KPMG Female Founders in Africa Competition
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