Applications are open for AFTS Alpha Expo Micro Accelerator & Pitch Competition 2026. Calling all early-stage Fintech and Adjacent startups in Africa, apply to pitch in-front of pre-selected panel of judges and our VC community during the 16th Africa Fintech Summit taking place in Kigali, Rwanda on 18-19 November 2026!
This year, 25 early-stage startups will be selected to pitch before global investors, ecosystem builders, corporates, policymakers and venture funds — with 50% of selected startups to come from host country Rwanda, reinforcing AFTS’ long-standing commitment to local ecosystem participation and founder inclusion. Africa Fintech Summit will closely work with Rwanda’s Ministry of ICT & Innovation & Innovate Rwanda in shortlisting Rwandan startups for the program.
For nearly a decade, Alpha Expo Micro Accelerator & Pitch Competition has served as a launchpad for Africa’s next generation of fintech and technology innovators. The program has helped founders secure visibility, partnerships, investment conversations and market access across the continent and beyond. Over 100+ startups have participated in the program since 2017 taking home over $2 Million in awards and benefits as well as collectively raising over $400M growth capital as they scale their growth across the globe.
AFTS Alpha Expo Micro Accelerator & Pitch Competition Benefits
- Opportunity to pitch live at the Africa Fintech Summit Kigali 2026
- Access to a cash prize pool
- Investor readiness training and pitch coaching
- Masterclasses delivered by industry experts
- A complimentary exhibition booth at the summit
- Two complimentary delegate passes to the summit
- Direct access to venture capital firms, corporates, regulators, and strategic partners
- Increased visibility across Africa’s fintech ecosystem.
Eligibility Criteria
- Your Startup should ideally be in Fintech & Fintech-adjacent Industries (Payments, AI, digital banking, Stablecoins, E-Commerce, Reg-tech, Trade-tech/Logistics, Blockchain, Remittance, Cross border trade, Climate-tech, Edtech, Healthtech, Mobile Money, etc)
- Has an Africa operation/Focus/Nexus with a legally registered business in Africa, operational in Africa, expanding to Africa, founded by or serving the African Diaspora globally, etc)
- Early-stage startup that has not yet raised more than $1M external funding
- Can attend AFTSKIGALI26 in Kigali, Rwanda on 18-19 November 2026 in person and pitch!
How To Apply for AFTS Alpha Expo Micro Accelerator & Pitch Competition
Application Deadline: 15 July 2026
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