Afreximbank names top 8 startups for inaugural accelerator program

The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has announced the top eight finalists for its first Afreximbank Accelerator Program, a three-month initiative launching in March 2026. The program is designed to support Africa’s most promising startups driving innovation in intra-African trade.

Finalists were chosen from over 1,600 applicants, highlighting the continent’s entrepreneurial talent. A rigorous process included business assessments, interviews, and pitch sessions evaluated by Afreximbank trade specialists and external experts from venture capital and innovation sectors.

Program support and opportunities for startups

The startups represent innovations in agriculture, e-commerce, market access, fintech, supply chain enhancement, and manufacturing. Afreximbank will provide equity financing of up to $250,000 through its Fund for Export Development in Africa (FEDA), mentorship from industry leaders, and market access through its pan-African trade ecosystem.

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Participants will engage in virtual learning modules, hands-on workshops, and in-person sessions across hubs such as Abuja, Nairobi, and Afreximbank headquarters in Cairo. The program will culminate in a high-profile Demo Day where startups showcase solutions to investors, policymakers, and industry leaders.

Finalists reflect Afreximbank’s mission and vision

Mr. Haytham Elmaayergi, Executive Vice President, Global Trade Bank at Afreximbank, said, “The Afreximbank Accelerator Program reflects our belief in the power of innovation to transform intra-African trade. This inaugural cohort represents the future of African enterprise, and we are proud to invest in them to unlock trade across Africa, the diaspora, and the Caribbean.”

The geographic diversity of applicants, including Africa, the diaspora, and CARICOM, demonstrates the program’s reach. By targeting startups from Seed to Series A, the program aims to accelerate growth and foster a sustainable ecosystem for trade-led development across the continent.

For the full list of finalists and program details, visit: https://apo-opa.co/3ZPTXSQ