KPMG Female Founders Africa Competition 2026

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Applications are open for KPMG Female Founders Africa Competition 2026. The 2026 KPMG Female Founders in Africa Competition is delighted to invite applications from dynamic female entrepreneurs across the continent. In a world marked by ever-evolving global dynamics, we are seeking resilient and ambitious ventures – owned and led by women – across a diverse array of sectors, including technology, health, agriculture, and beyond.

We especially encourage female founders who have shown the tenacity to navigate challenges, possess a clear vision for growth, and demonstrate strong market potential to apply. This competition aims to empower women entrepreneurs not only by offering essential support, resources, and networking opportunities but also by equipping them to thrive amidst uncertainty and change.

If you are a female founder with an innovative business model and an unwavering commitment to driving positive transformation within your community, we want to hear from you. Apply now to join this year’s competition and take the next bold step in your entrepreneurial journey, showing resilience in the face of shifting global realities.

KPMG Female Founders Africa Competition Benefits

Access to the KPMG mentorship programme
Access to the investors’ deals
Branding and visibility of your startup
Access to our community engagements

Eligibility Criteria:

Be a registered company in the country/region where the country/region final is being held
Must be female-owned
Have been active in operation for at least one year
Be either a tech-enabled, tech-driven or tech-led business
Not be majority-owned by a large corporate
Be able to conduct all pitches in English
Be available to pitch at a country or regional event for the semi-final and final in the timeline outlined by the country of origin (if applicable).
If selected as a finalist, be available to pitch at the Finals in 2026.

Application process

Call for applications
Submission of supporting details
Shortlist selection by a panel of experts, inviting teams to the pitching event (The organizers reserve the right to move the competitors to the online “other countries” group and have them compete there)
Regional pitching to a panel of jury (Investors) and announcement of regional winners
Pitching finals for regional winners and announcement of “Best female-founder” for early, growth, and mature ventures