Introduction

The Global Startup Awards Africa (GSA Africa) 2024, Edition 11, is now accepting entries. This prestigious competition invites African innovators, startups, and ecosystem enablers dedicated to solving critical global challenges to participate. Ethiopia will host the African Finale in October 2024, setting the stage for a transformative journey to unlock Africa’s true potential and shape the future for generations to come.

Categories Aligned with SDGs

Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the 2024 categories include:

  • GreenTech
  • HealthTech
  • Mobility and Logistics
  • AgriTech
  • FinTech
  • Women in Tech

Introducing the Youth Startup Category

This year introduces the Youth Startup category, emphasizing Africa's young demographic, with 60% of its population under 25 years old. This category focuses on startups led by visionary founders under 26 years of age.

Entry Criteria and Competition Framework

Each category has specific criteria that applicants must meet to advance. We encourage applicants to review these requirements thoroughly. The competition unfolds in four pivotal phases, with winners advancing through national and regional levels before converging at the GSA Africa Summit in Addis Ababa. This summit includes a week-long festival and awards dinner, offering a unique platform for innovators to connect, celebrate, and propel forward alongside ambassadors, international investors, corporate leaders, and key government stakeholders.

Exclusive Opportunities for Winners

Winners gain exclusive access to the GSA Alumni Network, offering invaluable networking opportunities, mentorship, and connections with regional and global stakeholders. "GSA Africa is more than a competition; it champions the spirit of African entrepreneurship, providing global visibility and potential investment opportunities through the GIIG Africa Fund," commented Jo Griffiths, co-founder of GIIG. "Last year’s participation of 8200+ entries from all 54 AU member states was a remarkable achievement, and we look forward to what 2024 holds."

Engagement with Global Innovation Ecosystems

Kim Balle, co-founder of GSA Global, emphasized, "In addition to investment, networking, and mentorship opportunities, startup winners will be invited to the Global Grand Finale, engaging with potential partners from global innovation ecosystems."

Strategic Partnerships and Application Details

GSA Africa 2024 is made possible through a strategic partnership between The Global Innovation Initiative Group (GIIG), the Ministry of Labor and Skills FDRE, the Ministry of Innovation and Technology (MInT), and the Entrepreneurship Development Institute (EDI).

Applications for the 2024 GSA Africa are now open and will close on May 5, with only finalized applications eligible to progress. Get a glimpse of what to expect from GSA Africa 2024 by viewing the video clip of the GSA Africa 2023 Summit & Awards Ceremony.

International Stage for GSA 2023 Winners

Representing 23 African countries, the 16 GSA 2023 African winners will participate in the global round this year. They will compete on an international stage at the Global Startup Awards, gaining further recognition and support.