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.
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