VivaTech AfricaTech Award Program 2026 for African startups

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Applications are open for VivaTech AfricaTech Award Program 2026. The AfricaTech Award aims to showcase the abundance of talent and innovation across Africa while creating new opportunities for emerging startups operating on the continent.

For four years, the AfricaTech Award has recognized and supported African startups striving to transform the business landscape across the continent. This year, they are inviting African startups from all industries to participate in the award. Apply now and join us for the 10th edition of VivaTech, taking place from 17–20 June 2026 in Paris.

VivaTech AfricaTech Award Program Objectives

Their objective is to showcase the abundance of talent and innovators in Africa, while creating new opportunities for emerging startups across the continent.
The six finalists will be invited to pitch at VivaTech 2026 in June.
The winner will be announced alongside the other award recipients during the VivaTech Global Awards Ceremony, gaining significant visibility and a prominent spotlight throughout the event.

VivaTech AfricaTech Award Program Benefits

FOR THE TOP 30:

One VivaTech Startup Pass

FOR THE 6 FINALISTS

A free booth in the AfricaTech Village
Enjoy an invitation package, including flight and four VivaTech passes
Pitch your product onstage in front of a jury of top decision-makers and investors
One-to-one meetings scheduled with VCs
Strong visibility across VivaTech

FOR THE WINNER

Pitch your solution during the VivaTech Global Awards Ceremony
Gain extensive visibility across VivaTech
Enjoy mentoring from jury members (TBD)

Eligibility Criteria

Headquartered in Africa: The startup must have its main office located in Africa.
Operating in Africa: The startup must offer a solution or product that addresses the African market.
Funding: The startup must have raised more than USD 150K.

Selection Criteria

Innovation
- Relevance and innovation level of the tech solution compared to existing alternatives (size, problem solved, technology used, protection of the innovation, etc.)
Impact
- Innovative product/solution addressing an important global challenge with a high social, economic, environmental, or gender impact.
Scalability
- Market sizing and scalability potential of the startup, track record of scaling (target addressable market, geographic ambition on the continent, clients targeted, etc.)
Team Profile
- Quality and size of the team (expertise, entrepreneurship background, academic background, number of employees, etc.)
Business Model
- Demonstrated ability to monetize the business model and achieve sustainable operations, supported by clear traction and proven product-market fit (startup maturity, commercial traction, number of clients, annual global revenue growth, etc.).