The Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) has opened applications for the SFIA Start-Up Challenge, a dynamic platform for emerging sports and fitness innovators. Designed to spotlight fresh talent and technology in the SportsTech and FitnessTech sectors, this competition invites early-stage start-ups from across Africa to present their solutions to a high-profile panel of industry leaders.
Program Overview
About the Challenge
- The SFIA Start-Up Challenge offers entrepreneurs the chance to pitch their start-ups directly to over 90 judges, including executives, investors, and experts from the global sports and fitness industry.
- The challenge aims to elevate promising innovations that address industry needs across performance, health, engagement, and consumer experience.
Key Details
- Organizer: Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA)
- Program Website: sfia.org
- Application Deadline: 31 July 2025
- Format: Pitch-style competition judged by a large panel of industry professionals
- Target Participants: Start-ups based in any African country
Eligibility and Focus Areas
Target Regions
- Open to applicants from all over the globe.
Target Sectors
- SportsTech: Technology solutions advancing athletic performance, sports infrastructure, or fan engagement
- FitnessTech: Innovations in personal fitness, wellness tracking, connected devices, and health-tech integrations
Target Stage
- Stage Agnostic.
Benefits and Exposure
Participants selected to pitch will:
- Present directly to 90+ industry judges
- Gain exposure among executives and investors within the SFIA network
- Compete for an exclusive SFIA membership, offering access to valuable resources, industry data, and networking opportunities
The SFIA Start-Up Challenge presents a high-visibility opportunity for African entrepreneurs at the forefront of SportsTech and FitnessTech. With a judging panel of over 90 influential industry professionals and the potential for recognition and support through SFIA membership, this competition serves as a springboard for start-ups ready to make a mark. Interested founders must submit their applications by 31 July 2025.