Westerwelle Startup Haus Mombasa and GreenCape, partnered with the Friedrich Naumann Foundation, invite green economy entrepreneurs from seven African nations to enter the 2026 FNF Afri GreenPitch Challenge. This expanded edition brings the successful South African competition to Eastern and Southern Africa, offering pre-growth green SMEs unprecedented access to funding and mentorship.
Expanded Reach Across Southern & East Africa
Originally launched in South Africa in 2017, this Afri edition now welcomes pre‑growth green businesses from Botswana, eSwatini, Kenya, Lesotho, Namibia, South Africa, and Tanzania.
Who Should Enter
Your business must be registered, trading, and sales‑generating (seeking Series A funding) in one of these sectors:
- Circular economy and waste
- Renewable energy
- Sustainable agriculture
- Sustainable mobility
- Water and wastewater
Key Dates for 2026
- Entries open: 29 May 2026
- Entries close: 30 June 2026
- Finalists announced: 15 July 2026
- Pitch prep workshop: 5 August 2026 (Cape Town, hybrid)
- Southern Africa pitching event: 3 September 2026 (Cape Town)
- East Africa pitching event: 25 September 2026 (Nairobi)
Why Enter the Challenge
Finalists pitch “shark‑tank style” to judges and investors. Benefits include:
- Cash prize for the winner
- Full‑day investment strategies workshop (all finalists) hosted by RMB Ventures
- Mentoring support
- Access to a network of potential funders
Related opportunity: Centauri Space Startup Programme for SA Ventures | Apply Now
Prize Value
Total cash and in‑kind prizes amount to approximately R320,000 for the Southern Africa track.
How to Apply
Entries close 30 June 2026. Apply via the official challenge website:
2026 FNF Afri GreenPitch Challenge – Application Page
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