The Meltwater Entrepreneurial School of Technology (MEST Africa) and the Norwegian Embassy are hosting the 2024 MEST Africa Challenge to find and support exceptional AgriTech entrepreneurs solving West African agricultural problems.
AgriTech startups from Benin, Cape Verde, Cote d’Ivoire, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mauritania, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Mali, and Togo are welcome to apply for the sixth round of the MEST Africa Challenge.
The successful startup will be awarded USD$50,000 in equity funding, gain access to MEST’s vast global network, form valuable partnerships, receive mentorship, and secure investment opportunities to expedite its growth and expand its global reach.
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MEST Africa Challenge 2024 requirements
These agritech startups must be early-stage tech companies that have been around for less than three years to be eligible. They also need to have at least $5,000 in recurring monthly income and proof that they’ve been making that much money for at least six months. They couldn’t have raised more than $1 million altogether.
It’s also best for startups to have been registered in Delaware and have at least two people on their starting team. This company can run any business, from B2B to B2C, B2B2G, and more. Last but not least, all startups and competitors must be able to speak English when they pitch.
The application deadline is 4 October 2024, and the Top 20 will be chosen on 14 October 2024. The semi-finals will be held online on October 29th and 30th, 2024. The finals will be held in person at a later date that will be shared.
AgriTech entrepreneurs can apply here.
Since its founding, MEST has invested over $30 million in training over 2,000 entrepreneurs and supports 90 early-stage tech firms in AgriTech, FinTech, SaaS, eCommerce, Digital Media, and Healthcare. For AgriTech companies, this year is the best chance ever to “Find Their Soil” and grow their businesses to the next level.
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About MEST AFICA
The Meltwater Entrepreneurial School of Technology (MEST Africa) was established to nurture Africa’s next generation of technology entrepreneurs. Founded by Meltwater, a global leader in media intelligence and supported by the Norwegian Embassy, MEST Africa provides training, funding, and mentorship to early-stage startups. The program is designed to empower entrepreneurs with the skills, resources, and networks needed to build successful technology companies.
MEST Africa’s initiative aligns with Norway’s commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in Africa, creating opportunities for collaboration and growth. By combining local expertise with international support, MEST Africa and the Norwegian Embassy drive economic development and technological advancement across the continent.