Female entrepreneurs in South Africa’s startup ecosystem have a new opportunity to scale their ventures with the launch of the Innovest Ignite Accelerator, a program designed exclusively for female-led startups.
The accelerator, spearheaded by Innovest Africa, aims to empower women building innovative businesses by providing mentorship, seed funding, training, and access to investors. Applications are now open for the first cohort, giving founders a chance to take their ventures to the next stage of growth.
The Innovest Ignite Accelerator will prioritize startups led by women across key sectors including technology, fintech, healthtech, agritech, e-commerce, and green innovation. Selected founders will benefit from a 12-week structured program covering:
- Business development and scaling strategies
- Investor readiness training
- Access to industry experts and mentors
- Pitch opportunities with venture capitalists and angel investors
The program is part of Innovest Africa’s commitment to closing the gender funding gap. Research shows that less than 5% of venture funding in Africa goes to female founders, despite women-led businesses often outperforming male-led ones in terms of return on investment.
“Innovest Ignite is about leveling the playing field for women entrepreneurs,” said the program’s director. “We believe women-led startups are central to Africa’s innovation story, and this accelerator is a step toward unlocking their full potential.”
Africa’s startup ecosystem is experiencing rapid growth, but gender equity remains a challenge. Programs like Innovest Ignite are crucial to ensuring that women are not left behind in Africa’s innovation wave.
The Innovest Ignite Accelerator is more than a program it’s a platform for South Africa’s female founders to shine, scale, and secure funding.
Finalists will not only gain critical resources but also join a network of ambitious women innovators working to reshape Africa’s business landscape.
Applications are open until September 30, 2025, and female entrepreneurs across South Africa are encouraged to apply.
To apply or for more information visit the website.
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