Africa’s startup and social impact scene is buzzing with five standout programs about to close for applications. Whether you’re building a disruptive tech solution, scaling fundraising capabilities, or eyeing an international accelerator, there’s something here for every early‑stage founder and organization. Read on for event details, funding offers, competitions, and accelerator spots you need to act on—fast!
1. ALX Ventures Demo Day 2025
Deadline: July 27, 2025 (in 3 days)
Type: Event / Showcase
Target Region: Pan‑Africa (hosted in Morocco)
Target Stage: Pre‑seed, Seed
Organizer: ALX Ventures
Overview:
Join six of Morocco’s most promising early‑stage startups at Technopark Casablanca. Discover innovations in health‑tech, mobility, supply‑chain, sustainability, and mental‑health solutions.
Event Details:
- When: Sunday, July 27, 2025 · 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM WAT
- Where: ALX Hub, Technopark Casablanca
- Registration: lu.ma/jhbpq2dl
Featured Startups:
- LaboPath – Digital pathology reporting platform
- Mindbloom – Secure mental‑health support network
- Fach nmchi – Urban mobility optimization tools
- SUPPLIFLEX – Supply‑chain management for SMEs
- Bioloop – Smart waste‑management systems
- NOVERA – Interactive environmental education
Why Attend:
- Preview cutting‑edge solutions
- Network with investors, VCs, and ecosystem builders
- Connect with incubators and corporate innovation teams
2. Africa Impact Fundraising Grant 2025
Deadline: July 31, 2025 (in 7 days)
Type: Funding Grant + Training
Target Region: All African Union member states
Target Stage: NGOs, CBOs, Social enterprises
Organizer: The New Africa Fund
Program Highlights:
- Online Training & 30‑Day Challenge: Develop small‑donor campaigns; top performers earn up to $5,000 in matching funds.
- Advanced Residency: Top 10 organizations travel to Kigali for a week‑long workshop on financial management, branding, proposal writing, and donor cultivation.
- Ongoing Support: 12 months of free fiscal sponsorship; continued performance‑based fundraising opportunities.
Eligibility & How to Apply:
- Registered organization in any AU member state
- Submit proof of registration, org chart, plus an audit or five months of financials
- Apply by: July 31, 2025 · 21:00 GMT+1
- More Info: Visit the New Africa Fund website
3. SFIA Start‑Up Challenge 2025
Deadline: July 31, 2025 (in 7 days)
Type: Competition / Pitch Event
Target Region: Global (strong African turnout encouraged)
Target Sector: SportsTech, FitnessTech
Target Stage: Stage‑agnostic
Organizer: Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA)
Why Compete:
- Pitch before 90+ industry executives, investors, and experts
- Win an exclusive SFIA membership—access data, networking, and resources
- Showcase innovations in athletic performance, fan engagement, connected devices, and wellness
How to Apply:
- Complete the online form at sfia.org
- No fees or equity commitments
- Finalists will be invited to pitch at SFIA’s major industry gathering
4. Startup Elevate 2025
Deadline: July 31, 2025 (in 7 days)
Type: Event / Investor‑Founder Program
Target Region: Global (event in Japan)
Target Sector: HealthTech, Sustainability, DeepTech
Target Stage: Pre‑seed, Seed (raised < ¥300 M/$2million)
Organizer: Lifetime Ventures + OIST
Program Snapshot:
- When & Where: September 29–30, 2025 · Okinawa Institute of Science & Technology, Japan
- Format: Two‑day curated investor pitches, mentorship, poster sessions, and networking dinners
- Perks: 1‑on‑1 VC matches, pitch coaching, travel stipends, and workshopping with global investors
Application Process:
- Submit: Company & founder info, pitch deck, funding status
- Screening: August 2025 document review → early‑September interviews
- Mentoring: VIP pitch prep one week before the event
- Showcase: Live presentations to investors on Sept 29–30
5. Northern Light Accelerator
Deadline: August 1, 2025 (in 8 days)
Type: Equity‑free Accelerator
Target Region: International → Helsinki, Finland
Target Stage: Pre‑seed, Seed
Organizer: Maria 01
Program Features:
- Dates: Sep 1 – Nov 30, 2025 (Demo Day at Slush Nov 19–20)
- Phase 1: Product‑market validation with real customer feedback
- Phase 2: Iterate & test assumptions on the ground
- Phase 3: Launch & scale with Demo Day spotlight
Why Apply:
- Equity‑free, with introductions to VCs and partners
- Relocate to Maria 01 campus—office space, local support, founder community
- Post‑program network access and ongoing ecosystem integration
How to Apply:
- Open to international startups ready for Europe
- No participation fees; relocation support available
- Select 10 teams—apply by August 1, 2025, via the Maria 01 website
Don’t let these closing windows pass you by. Whether you’re seeking capital, mentorship, or global exposure, now’s the moment to take action. Apply today, and keep an eye on our Opportunities Radar page for the next wave of must‑see programs.