Launchpad Africa by Founders Connect is making its highly anticipated return to Nigeria in 2025, giving ambitious entrepreneurs and early-stage startups a unique opportunity to pitch their ideas, secure funding, and unlock valuable resources to scale their businesses.
Following the successful Kenya edition in March, Founders Connect, in partnership with African Impact Initiative, Ingressive Capital, Cloudplexo, Reneé, and Sterling Bank, is excited to continue supporting African startups with funding, mentorship, and growth opportunities.
This year, $2,500 in equity-free grant funding is up for grabs, along with a $7,000 investment from African Impact Initiative and a range of exclusive perks designed to accelerate your startup’s journey.
Who Can Apply?
This application is open to all industries, with a special interest in women-led startups.
Eligibility Criteria:
Startup must be less than 3 years old
Must be tech-enabled (more than just a website)
Must have launched a product with demonstrable traction (active users and/or revenue)
Must have raised less than $1M in outside capital
Must have high growth potential and scalability
Founding team must be available to pitch in person at the semi-final and final stages (Lagos, Nigeria or Nairobi, Kenya)
Startup should address specific needs, challenges, or opportunities within African markets
At least one founder must be committed full-time to the startup
Additional Perks
$25k-fee free processing on Paystack.
One year free Intercom pro subscription and 50% off in year 2
6 months free on Notion with unlimited AI – over $6,000 in savings
Up to $10k in AWS credits
6 months of free PR Services from Reneé PR
9-month access to Mangrove’s Resilience Co-Pilot ($19,000 value)
