African entrepreneurs tackling environmental and sustainability challenges now have a chance to secure funding, mentorship, and investor exposure as applications open for the FNF Afri GreenPitch Challenge 2026.
- African entrepreneurs tackling environmental and sustainability challenges now have a chance to secure funding, mentorship, and investor exposure as applications...
- The regional competition is seeking promising green businesses from East and Southern Africa that are ready to scale their impact...
- Platform for Green Business Growth Selected participants will gain the opportunity to present their ventures before judges, investors and industry leaders...
- Benefits include a cash award for the overall winner, mentoring opportunities and access to networks of investors and funding partners.
Keep reading for the full breakdown on Africa — everything you need to know is covered below.
The regional competition is seeking promising green businesses from East and Southern Africa that are ready to scale their impact and attract investment.
The challenge is organised by Westerwelle Startup Haus Mombasa and GreenCape in partnership with the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom. The programme expands the long-running GreenPitch Challenge, which has been held in South Africa since 2017, to a wider African audience.
Organisers say the initiative aims to identify commercially viable businesses tackling environmental problems while creating economic opportunities.
Platform for Green Business Growth
Selected participants will gain the opportunity to present their ventures before judges, investors and industry leaders at networking events scheduled to take place in Nairobi, Kenya, and Cape Town, South Africa, in September 2026. The events will follow a competitive pitch format, allowing entrepreneurs to showcase their innovations and connect directly with potential funders.
The competition focuses on enterprises operating in key sectors of the green economy. These include circular economy and waste management, renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, sustainable mobility, and water and wastewater solutions. Organisers are looking for businesses that combine environmental benefits with strong commercial potential.
Prizes Worth Up to $20,000
Winners and finalists will receive a package of cash and in-kind support valued at approximately $20,000. Benefits include a cash award for the overall winner, mentoring opportunities and access to networks of investors and funding partners.
All finalists will also participate in a full-day investment strategy workshop hosted by RMB Ventures. The training is intended to help entrepreneurs strengthen their fundraising readiness and improve their ability to engage with investors.
According to programme organisers, the challenge provides more than prize money. It also provides visibility, expert guidance, and business development opportunities to help young enterprises move to the next stage of growth.
Who Can Apply?
The competition is open to businesses that have already moved beyond the idea stage and are currently registered, trading and generating sales. Applicants must be seeking funding to expand their operations and must be based in eligible countries, including Botswana, eSwatini, Kenya, Lesotho, Namibia and South Africa. Some programme information also indicates that Tanzanian businesses may be eligible.
Applications close on 30 June 2026, while finalists are expected to be announced on 15 July 2026. Entrepreneurs with scalable green solutions are encouraged to apply before the deadline and connect with investors, mentors, and industry stakeholders across the region.
Interested applicants should click here to apply for the programme.