Applications Open for 7th MEST Africa Challenge

The MEST Africa Challenge (MAC) 2025 is now accepting applications from early-stage tech startups across Africa. Organized by MEST Africa and powered by Absa, this premier Pan-African pitch competition offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to secure up to $50,000 in equity funding, gain entry into the prestigious

MEST Portfolio, and access commercial pilot opportunities with Absa business units.

This year’s challenge emphasizes fintech and value chain innovations, including:

Smart credit and alternative lending
Fraud detection and trust technology
Personalized financial operating systems
Offline-friendly payment rails
Next-gen wallets and micro-insurtech
Investment gateways and cross-border solutions
Financial literacy tools and omnichannel customer experiences
Trade and cross-border boosters
Product-landing platforms and value-add service layers
Integration orchestrators
Micro and on-demand insurtech

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify, startups must:

Operate in at least one of the following countries: Botswana, Uganda, Mauritius, Seychelles, Kenya, Mozambique, Zambia, Ghana
Have a minimum monthly recurring revenue (MRR) of $5,000 for at least six months
Have raised $1 million or less in cumulative funding
Be in operation for less than three years
Be co-founded by at least two individuals
Be able to pitch in English
Preferably be registered as a Delaware C-corp or in a neutral jurisdiction (though not mandatory)

What’s at Stake

$50,000 in equity funding
Entry into the MEST Portfolio
Opportunity to pilot commercial solutions with Absa business units
Access to exclusive partner prizes and perks
Exposure to a network of investors, corporates, and ecosystem leaders

Key Dates

Applications Open: August 4, 2025
Applications Close: September 26, 2025
Top 20 Participants Announced: October 10, 2025
Virtual Semi-Finals: Week of October 27, 2025
In-Person Finals in Cape Town: Week of November 24, 2025

Startups interested in applying can submit their applications through the official MEST Africa Challenge platform. The application process includes submitting a short online application and a three-minute video pitch. Finalists will have the opportunity to present their solutions to a panel of judges and investors during the in-person finals in Cape Town.

To apply or for more information, visit the website.