If you lead an early-stage business in Africa and want to refine your model, pitch to investors, and gain exposure, the African Business Challenge organised by Africa Business Club @ Kelley offers a platform to compete, learn and gain prize funding.<\/p>\n
Hosted by the Africa Business Club at Kelley School of Business (Indiana University), the competition is designed to support African-based ventures with investment readiness and exposure. It provides entrepreneurs with access to business frameworks, feedback from investor-judges, and a chance at prize money. For African MSMEs, participating offers more than just a contest\u2014it\u2019s a learning experience that strengthens market thinking, investor communications and networking.<\/p>\n
Benefits<\/p>\n
Gain one-on-one feedback from experienced judges and mentors
\nUp to US$5000 Prize funding ( first place US$2,500)
\nClear business pitch format and development, helping you build investor-ready material
\nVisibility and network access through a global academic business club<\/p>\n
Eligibility Criteria<\/p>\n
Entrepreneur born in Africa with a startup based in Africa
\nRegistered venture with minimum operational time (e.g., \u2265 1 year)
\nBusiness model demonstrates viability, impact potential and addressable market
\nOnly one submission per team\/venture<\/p>\n
Application Rules & Guidelines<\/p>\n
Your business pitch must reflect original work; avoid exaggeration or fabrication.
\nPitch document is limited (e.g., 7 pages max in previous edition)
\nBusiness pitch should answer key questions: What is your product\/service? Who is your market? What traction do you have? What differentiates you?
\nTeams may be required to submit an executive summary and deliver a live presentation with Q&A.<\/p>\n
Duration & Timeline<\/p>\n
The competition typically runs over several weeks with stages such as: submission \u2192 shortlisting \u2192 finalist presentations \u2192 winner announcement.<\/p>\n
Tips for Applicants<\/p>\n
Ensure your pitch clearly articulates the problem, the solution, and your competitive edge\u2014avoid vague terms.
\nUse metrics or real data to support your claims (even if early stage).
\nPrepare a concise 1-page executive summary as this often provides first impression.
\nRehearse your presentation and prepare for judges\u2019 questions on traction, business model and scalability.
\nSubmit early and ensure all eligibility criteria are met to avoid disqualification.<\/p>\n
How to Apply<\/p>\n