AfricaTech Awards, a pan-African initiative developed to recognize and support the most innovative and impactful tech start-ups across the continent, has announced a call for applications for its first edition.
These awards are supported by African Media Agency (AMA), Viva Technology and the International Finance Corporation (IFC).
The AfricaTech Awards will recognize African start-ups driving innovation and development impact in three main sectors – climate tech, health tech, and fintech.
Participating startups will have until March 25, 2022, to submit their applications. In May, with Viva Technology and IFC support, a panel of industry experts from our knowledge partner Deloitte will pre-select the top 45 applicants.
The final winners in each category will be announced during the 2022 edition of Viva Technology, taking place on June 15-18 in Paris and online.
Africatech Awards to give winners more visibility
Each of the three category winners will benefit from increased visibility and access to the networks provided by Viva Technology and IFC, including special one-on-one meetings with leaders and top executives in the tech industry.
“Africa is buzzing with innovative tech solutions that can help address climate change, promote food security, and expand financial inclusion,” said Makhtar Diop, IFC’s Managing Director.
He, however, added that over 80% of African start-ups report difficulties in accessing funding.
“Initiatives like the AfricaTech Awards, which bring together entrepreneurs, governments, and investors, are key to attracting the resources and support that tech start-ups need to scale their innovations across the continent and beyond,” said Diop.
Viva Technology Co-Presidents Maurice Lévy and Pierre Louette and Managing Director Julie Rant said they were both impressed by the quality of African innovations during the various on-site roadshows and in meetings with the 1000+ African startups that have already taken part in VivaTech.
With the AfricaTech Awards, the objective is to boost African innovation ecosystems’ visibility and create opportunities for African entrepreneurs within global markets.
VivaTech is the biggest startup and tech event in Europe and is recognized worldwide as a powerful catalyst for business transformation, startup growth and innovation for the common good.
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