Africa’s entrepreneurship landscape is brimming with momentum this July, and time is running out to get in on some of the most dynamic opportunities currently open. Whether you're a startup founder, a woman entrepreneur, or a tech innovator looking to build global networks, this week’s spotlight features high-value programs that offer funding, recognition, and strategic growth. From Visa’s major women-focused competition in South Africa to continent-spanning tech and investment summits, these are the chances you don’t want to miss.
Explore our full directory of active opportunities here, or read on for our hand-picked selection closing in the next few days.
1. She’s Next – Visa
Deadline: July 11, 2025
Women entrepreneurs in South Africa are eligible to apply for Visa’s She’s Next program, organized in collaboration with Absa. The program offers over $55,000 in grant funding along with tailored mentorship and business development training to help women-owned SMEs grow sustainably.
Award tiers include $25,200 for first place, $15,120 for second, $8,400 for third, and $5,600 for a social impact winner. A broader group of applicants will be selected for free training sessions to gain business insights and operational strategies.
Eligibility:
- Women aged 18 or older
- South African residents who own at least 51% of a legally registered business
- Business must be operating for more than one year
- Annual revenue must fall between $112,000 and $1.4 million
- Only one application is allowed per person
How to apply:
Applications must be submitted through visa.com or absa.co.za by July 11.
2. Lagos Startup Week 2025
Deadline: July 12, 2025
Lagos Startup Week returns for its 10th edition with the theme "Disrupting the Next Decade." Over 5,000 participants are expected to attend the two-day event at the Civic Centre, Lagos. The program includes Demo Days, founder showcases, and keynote panels featuring speakers from leading companies such as IROKO, Google, and Carbon.
The event provides a valuable platform for startups to gain visibility, connect with investors, and join conversations shaping Africa’s innovation future.
Eligibility:
The event is open to African founders, entrepreneurs, startups, and ecosystem builders. There is no formal application process, but advance registration is required.
How to apply:
Register to attend and access the full event schedule at lagosstartupweek.com before July 12.
3. Moonshot Conference 2025
Deadline: July 15, 2025
Organized by TechCabal, the Moonshot Conference is an in-person event focused on Africa’s digital and tech advancement. Set for October in Lagos, the conference expects more than 4,000 attendees and features over 100 speakers. Topics will be covered through nine curated tracks, including clean technology, creative industries, digital commerce, and public policy.
Attendees will have the opportunity to network with founders, corporates, investors, and policymakers, while also participating in workshops, mixers, and pitch competitions.
Eligibility:
Open to entrepreneurs, students, creatives, corporations, and stakeholders in the tech ecosystem. Attendance is in-person only.
How to apply:
Tickets, side event RSVPs, and exhibitor applications are available at moonshot.techcabal.com. The deadline for general registration is July 15.
4. AWIEF Awards 2025
Deadline: July 17, 2025
The AWIEF Awards are organized by the Africa Women Innovation & Entrepreneurship Forum to recognize outstanding women leaders and entrepreneurs from across the continent. The ceremony, to be held on October 31 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, will celebrate excellence in eight categories, including technology, agriculture, energy, creative industries, and social impact.
Eligibility:
Nominees must be women aged 18 or older who are founders or executives of African-based ventures. Nominees should demonstrate significant business success, innovation, and socio-economic impact.
How to apply:
Nominations can be submitted via awieforum.org. Applicants must create an account, complete the form, and submit it before July 17.
5. India-Africa Entrepreneurship & Investment Summit
Deadline: July 17, 2025
This invite-only summit, taking place in Nairobi, Kenya, brings together entrepreneurs, policymakers, and investors from India and Africa. Organized by the India Africa Business Network and supported by the Kenya Investment Authority, the summit will focus on fostering collaboration in sectors such as energy, AI, healthcare, agriculture, smart mobility, and infrastructure.
Confirmed participants include leading investors, venture builders, and ecosystem leaders from both continents. The event is designed to build long-term strategic partnerships and unlock investment across critical industries.
Eligibility:
Participation is by invitation or approval and is intended for African and Indian entrepreneurs, companies, and investors working in relevant sectors.
How to apply:
Interested parties should request an invitation through the IABN or affiliated partners. Confirmation is required by July 17.
Each of these opportunities offers more than just funding or recognition — they provide strategic value, ecosystem access, and long-term leverage for African entrepreneurs and innovators. From localized competitions to continental summits, they represent powerful gateways into new markets, networks, and stages of growth.
But the window is closing. If any of these fit your goals, act now before the deadlines pass. And for a constantly updated stream of grants, fellowships, and startup programs across Africa, visit our Opportunities page.