Baobab Network Accelerator offers $100,000 to African startups
The Baobab Network Accelerator 2025 is now accepting applications. It is designed for early-stage startups with traction and a minimum viable product. The programme offers $100,000 in equity funding, mentorship and access to a powerful pan-African investor network. This programme is designed to help high-potential startups quickly scale, refine their product-market fit, and grow sustainably across the continent.
Launched in 2019, with its headquarters located in Nairobi, the Baobab network has emerged as one of Africa’s most trusted and impactful accelerators, having funded over 65 startups across 16 African countries.
Their track record includes notable alumni such as Sidebrief, Terminal Africa, and Messenger, all thriving companies that have raised over $50 million in follow-on capital and created more than 1,250 jobs across the continent. Their systematic support has helped founders polish their pitch and validate their vision, building scalable businesses.
Past winners
Over the years, the Baobab Network Accelerator has supported a number of Africa’s next generation of tech champions. Its portfolio includes companies like Sidebrief, which simplifies cross-border legal incorporation and compliance for African businesses, Terminal Africa, which builds full-stack logistics infrastructure to connect African commerce to the global market, and Messenger, which streamlines last-mile e-commerce delivery fulfilment in Nigeria.
These startups represent a diverse range of companies supported by Baobab, all of which are high-growth, tech-driven ventures.
Benefits
- $100,000 in seed funding in exchange for 12.5% equity, paid upfront. Once accepted into the program
- 2 weeks of intensive consulting followed by 3 months of hands-on venture support and capacity building with the Baobab team and partner network
- Lifetime access to the Baobab global network of mentors, investors and corporate partners, without board control and future restrictions
Who can apply for the Baobab Network Accelerator 2025
The Baobab Network Accelerator 2025 is open to early-stage start-ups built and led by African founders:
- Founders must be based in Africa or have a presence on the continent, though international incorporation is allowed
- Only tech-first or tech-enabled businesses are eligible; the product should create or rely on technology, including IoT, AI, or digital tools
- The venture should have a minimum viable product (MVP) or validated interest from users, clients or paying customers
- This acceleration is for profit businesses only; non-profit businesses are not eligible.
- Applications from solo founders are welcome, though team startups are preferred
- Teams should have the capability to build products in-house or demonstrate relevant expertise in the sector.
How to apply
Applications for the Baobab Network Accelerator 2025 are open all year round, with rolling admissions. Interested founders should prepare a pitch deck and financial projections in English. Next, visit the official application portal and create a profile. Fill in key details about your team, business traction, scalability, and impact. Make sure all information is accurate and placed in the appropriate sections. Once you have completed your application, submit it and wait for feedback. New cohorts are expected to start in Q4 of 2025; applying early is advised.
Do you have an innovative business (small, mid-scale business or startup) that adds value, creates opportunities or solves bold problems? Then you`ve got a story worth telling? Shoot us an email with SUBJECT “Story Worth Telling (+Name of Business)” to [email protected]
