Wharton Africa Business Forum New Venture Competition 2026

The Wharton Africa Business Forum New Venture Competition is the flagship pitch competition at the Annual Wharton Africa Business Forum, targeting early-stage ventures with a chance to win non-dilutive funding and network with founders and investors from Africa and beyond. Finalists will present to a panel of judges at the conference, and previous editions have awarded prize funding to the top entrants.

Funding (non-dilutive) for top finalists and networking with founders and investors from Africa and beyond.

Ventures must have fewer than 50 full-time employees, have raised less than $250,000 to date, and have a direct link to Africa (though they can be headquartered outside Africa).

Complete the online application form and provide details about the startup, traction, and business model.