The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Digital Innovation Challenge 2026

The AfCFTA Secretariat’s second edition of the AfCFTA Digital Innovation Challenge invites African innovators aged 18–35 to submit digital solutions that remove cross-border trade barriers and advance AfCFTA’s digital and youth/women-in-trade protocols.

What it offers

• Top 50 shortlisted innovators: capacity-building programmes, networking, inclusion in the AfCFTA innovation community.
• Top 10 winners: tailored incubation/acceleration, investor showcases, AfCFTA platform access, promotional features.
• Top 5 grand winners: high-level recognition at an AfCFTA Forum, exclusive session with the AfCFTA Secretary-General, mentorship, advisory services, designation as AfCFTA Digital Innovation Champions.

Who can apply

• Individuals, teams, startups, or enterprises from an African Union Member State.
• Applicants must be aged 18–35.
• Solutions must be operational to scaling phase and demonstrate impact on intra-African trade aligned with AfCFTA objectives.

What you'll do

• Submit an operational digital solution that addresses cross-border trade barriers and contributes to AfCFTA implementation.
• Demonstrate proven impact, relevance to AfCFTA goals, operational excellence, scalability, and integration of advanced digital technologies.

How to apply

• Submit your proposal via the application link by 4th September 2026.
• For inquiries, contact the AfCFTA Secretariat at afcfta@afcfta.org.