Deadline: July 15, 2026
Calling all early-stage Fintech and Adjacent startups in Africa, apply for the AFTS ALPHA EXPO Micro Accelerator & Pitch Competition Program 2026 to pitch in-front of pre-selected panel of judges and a 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.
Eligibility
- 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!
Application
Registration is open from 15th May to 15 July 2026 and shortlisted startups will be contacted by July 31, 2026!
For more information, visit AFTS ALPHA EXPO Micro Accelerator & Pitch Competition.
