Apply for Wharton Africa Business Forum New Venture Competition 2026

Applications are now open for the Wharton Africa Business Forum (WABF) New Venture Competition 2026, the flagship startup pitch competition of the annual Wharton Africa Business Forum.

The competition is designed to showcase the next generation of African entrepreneurs building innovative, high-impact ventures across the continent and the diaspora. Finalists will pitch their businesses before a panel of investors, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders during the 33rd Wharton Africa Business Forum at the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania.

Competition Benefits

Selected startups will receive:

• Up to US$30,000 in non-dilutive funding
• Opportunity to pitch before investors and industry experts
• Exposure to top founders, venture capitalists, and ecosystem leaders
• Networking opportunities with African and global business leaders
• International visibility for their ventures.

Who Can Apply?

The competition is open to early-stage ventures that meet the following criteria:

• Have fewer than 50 full-time employees
• Have raised less than US$250,000 in funding
• Have a direct connection to Africa, although the business may be headquartered outside the continent.

What Organisers Are Looking For

Applicants should demonstrate:

• Innovative solutions to Africa’s socio-economic challenges
• Strong execution capability
• Scalability and growth potential
• Sustainable business models
• The ability to create meaningful impact across Africa.

Why This Matters

The Wharton Africa Business Forum New Venture Competition provides early-stage founders with more than funding. It offers a platform to gain international exposure, validate their business models, and connect with investors and mentors who can help accelerate growth. Financial inclusion programs

Application Deadline

August 1, 2026 (11:59 p.m. ET).

How To Apply

Interested founders can submit their applications through the official application form