100 Early Stage African Startups Report
(#100ESAS)
We are collecting entries for our inaugural 100 Early Stage African Startups Report. If you are an entrepreneur with an early stage startup in Africa, submit your information in the link below to see if you are eligible to be added to the Report. Once the report is finalized, it will be distributed widely to venture funds, social impact funds, governments, other entrepreneurs, and an assortment of other recipients who have an interest in supporting the startup ecosystem in Africa.
Not sure if you qualify? Check out the FAQ below for more details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an “early stage” startup?
Generally we are looking for entrepreneurial ventures that already have a minimum viable product (MVP) and have not yet received Series A funding. Additionally, we look for startups that have received total funding of less than $500,000 USD (this does not include funds personally spent by the founders).
What is an “African” startup?
At least 50% of the active founders must be citizens of an African country as recognized by the African Union, as well as Western Sahara. We use this metric because we want to be sure to highlight startups on the African continent that are led by Africans.
Does it cost money to submit my information?
This is FREE. The Report is free and it is free to submit your information to the Report. We are collecting information from early stage startups in order to create a report that highlights African entrepreneurs and provides them additional exposure to potential resources, such as funding, partnerships, and mentorship.
What happens after I submit my information?
Submitting your information using the link below is the first step. Afterwards, we will review all submissions and will inform you of whether you are a good fit for the Report. If that is the case, then we may also reach back to collect a few additional details to help us standardize the Report. Once we’ve finished creating the first draft of the Report, you will be given an opportunity to view your section and correct any information. Once the Report is finalized, you will be notified of the Report’s impending release date, and will be provided an early copy of the Report. You will also receive invitations to any digital launch events that we host in association with the Report.
I am a citizen of an African country, but my startup is located outside of the continent. Am I eligible to be included in the report?
If you are a citizen of an African country, and your startup is located outside of the African continent, you may still be eligible to be included in the Report. Specifically, in this scenario we would be interested in startups that are directly geared towards the African continent. So, for example, if you have a fintech startup based in the UK, but whose customer base is focused on consumers in Africa, then we absolutely would love for you to submit your information for the Report.
When will the report be released?
We are aiming for a late 2021 release date.
If I have questions about my application, or if I made a mistake, who do I contact?
You can always reach us at dumela@blacklightafrica.com.
I am not an early-stage startup, but I am interested in supporting the Report. What can I do?
We are always looking for sponsors to help offset the costs of producing the Report. Additionally, we would love for businesses, accelerators, incubators, funds, and other entities that are geared towards helping early stage entrepreneurs to have a presence in the Report. Contact us about sponsoring an advertisement featuring your program or service.