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

The AfCFTA Secretariat invites African innovators aged 18–35 to compete in the second edition of the AfCFTA Digital Innovation Challenge, seeking digital solutions that remove cross-border trade barriers and advance the AfCFTA’s digital and youth-focused 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 engagement with the AfCFTA Secretary-General, mentorship and advisory services, designation as AfCFTA Digital Innovation Champions.

Who can apply

• Individuals, teams, startups, and enterprises from African Union Member States.
• Applicants must be aged 18–35.
• Solutions must be operational to scaling phase, demonstrating proven impact on intra-African trade and alignment with AfCFTA objectives.

What you'll do

• Submit a digital solution that addresses cross-border trade barriers and contributes to AfCFTA implementation.
• Provide evidence of impact on MSMEs, 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 [email protected]