Applications are open for the AfCFTA Startup Acceleration & Partnership Program 2026, a flagship initiative implemented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat in partnership with the Korea-Africa Foundation (KAF). The programme is inviting applications from high-potential African startups seeking to strengthen their business capabilities, scale across borders, and access new global market opportunities.
The AfCFTA Startup Acceleration & Partnership Program is designed to support innovative African startups through business development support, mentorship, and international partnership opportunities. The initiative aligns with AfCFTA’s broader goals of promoting intra-African trade, industrial development, innovation, and global competitiveness for African businesses.
Through the programme, selected startups will benefit from the following:
- Capacity-building and mentorship support
- Market readiness training and strategic advisory services
- Access to Korean and global markets
- International trade facilitation opportunities
- Exposure to investors, strategic partners, and cross-border business ecosystems
- Opportunities for cross-continental collaboration and partnerships
Interested applicants are required to meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Be an African startup with an innovative and scalable business model
- Demonstrate readiness for international expansion
- Show interest in entering Korean and global markets
- Operate within AfCFTA priority sectors such as fintech, e-commerce, logistics, agritech, manufacturing, or digital platforms
- Demonstrate strong growth and commercialization potential
To apply for the AfCFTA Startup Acceleration & Partnership Program 2026, visit the official application page here.