The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), in partnership with the Korea Africa Foundation (KAF), has opened applications for the AfCFTA Startup Acceleration & Partnership Programme 2026 aimed at supporting high-potential African startups seeking international growth opportunities.
The programme is designed to strengthen African startups by improving their business capabilities, supporting market expansion, and creating strategic partnerships between African businesses and the Republic of Korea. The initiative also aligns with the broader goals of AfCFTA to deepen intra-African trade, promote industrialisation, and position African businesses to compete more effectively in global markets.
According to the organisers, the programme will select 30 startups across Africa with strong growth potential and readiness to scale beyond their local markets. Selected startups are expected to benefit from business development support, international exposure, partnership opportunities, and access to networks that can support expansion into Korea and other global markets.
The AfCFTA Startup Acceleration Programme 2026 is targeted at startups with innovative and scalable business models. Applicants are expected to demonstrate clear readiness for international expansion and show interest in entering the Korean market as well as other international markets.
Eligible startups must also operate within sectors considered priorities under AfCFTA. These sectors include fintech, e-commerce, logistics, agri-tech, manufacturing, and digital platforms.
The programme seeks to promote innovation, commercialisation, and cross-border collaboration among African startups while encouraging investment and partnership opportunities that can strengthen Africa’s startup ecosystem.
As part of the programme objectives, participating startups will receive support aimed at enhancing competitiveness and scalability. The initiative will also help founders explore cross-border business opportunities and connect with potential investors and strategic partners.
Interested applicants are required to submit a completed application form, a business plan, and other supporting documents specified in the application guidelines.
Applications for the programme will close on May 24, 2026.
The organisers encouraged qualified African startups with ambitions to scale globally to take advantage of the opportunity before the application deadline.
Applications are to be submitted via email to [email protected].
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