Applications Open: 2024 AfricaTech Awards at VivaTech

VivaTech is thrilled to announce the third edition of the AfricaTech Awards, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at recognizing and supporting innovative companies focused on Africa’s unique challenges. This year’s awards will spotlight outstanding achievements in three pivotal sectors: Climate Tech, Health Tech, and E-commerce & FinTech. The grand ceremony is set to take place during the Viva Technology Paris event from May 22 to May 25, 2024.

The Essence of AfricaTech Awards

The primary objective of the AfricaTech Awards is to celebrate and uplift innovative companies that are making a significant impact in addressing challenges specific to the African continent. VivaTech, in collaboration with MSL France and Les Echos Solutions, is the driving force behind this prestigious Challenge.

Who Can Participate?

Open to all startups operating in Africa, the AfricaTech Awards invite companies with a majority of their team based in Africa and/or serving African markets to apply. The focus areas include Climate Tech, Health Tech, and FinTech/E-commerce. Participation is not bound by any registration fees, offering a level playing field for all candidates.

How to Join the Challenge

To participate, startups need to register on the Agorize platform between February 5, 2024, and March 10, 2024. The application process involves providing essential information, including a written application in English, and uploading relevant documents to enhance the submission. The critical dates for the Challenge are as follows:

• February 5, 2024 (14:30 CET): Opening of the Challenge
• March 10, 2024 (23:55 CET): Closing of the Challenge
• April 17, 2024: Official Announcement of the Top 45 (15 per Category)
• May 7, 2024: Announcement of the 9 finalists (3 per Category)
• May 22-25, 2024: VivaTech Event

The Selection Process

A rigorous selection process is in place, overseen by a distinguished jury consisting of representatives from VivaTech, sponsors, ecosystem key players, ambassadors, and partners. The criteria for selection encompass various aspects, including the impact, innovation, scalability, team profile, and business model of the startups.

The selection unfolds in three stages:

1. Top 45 Selection: 15 startups per category are chosen based on eligibility and selection criteria.
2. Top 9 Selection: From the Top 45, the knowledge partner selects the top 3 startups per category.
3. Top 3 Selection: The final winners in each category are nominated by the jury during the Awards Ceremony at Viva Technology.

Prizes and Recognition

For the 9 finalists, the rewards include:

1. Participation in VivaTech: An invitation to the event, including flight, booth, and passes.
2. Networking Opportunities: Meeting key players to scale their business, pitching to top VC funds, and refining ideas with fellow entrepreneurs.
3. Enhanced Visibility: Featured in the VivaTech program and communication plan, providing exposure to a global audience.

Each category winner receives increased visibility and access to networks facilitated by Viva Tech, including one-to-one meetings with leaders and top executives in the tech industry.

Responsibilities and Legal Aspects

VivaTech emphasizes the importance of responsible participation, with the challenge rules addressing various aspects such as personal data collection, intellectual property, and the applicability of laws.

Apply Now!

The AfricaTech Awards 2024 at VivaTech promise to be a transformative celebration of innovation, resilience, and forward-thinking solutions tailored for the African continent. As the event unfolds, the world will witness the unveiling of groundbreaking startups contributing to the advancement of Africa’s tech landscape. Stay tuned for updates and witness the future of tech innovation at the heart of VivaTech.