The MEST Africa Challenge (MAC), a pitch competition for early-stage tech startups across the continent, has revealed the top 5 Regional Winners set to compete for the grand prize of $50,000 in equity.
These startups, selected from a pool of 40 contenders spanning Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Senegal, and South Africa, cover diverse sectors such as fintech, health tech, e-commerce, and edtech. This comes after rigorous pitch sessions, showcasing their resilience and innovation.
Letaji (Kenya), a startup in the construction industry, is an online marketplace simplifying the procurement of building materials, enhancing direct connections between homeowners, contractors, and hardware stores with top suppliers.
Chestify AI (Ghana) on the other hand is a platform facilitating seamless connections and support among clinical professionals, enhancing patient care through innovative solutions.
OneHealth (Nigeria) leads the health tech sector by providing an integrated platform for virtual consultations, connecting patients with doctors and diagnostic centers while managing prescriptions and test results online.
Sanya (Senegal) stands out in IT edutainment, offering a unique combination of educational and entertainment digital products, boosting a community-based approach to tech learning for companies.
Koa Academy (South Africa) pioneers the future of online education with its innovative approach to digital learning, positioning itself at the forefront of educational technology in the region.
The much-anticipated final program, where these finalists will vie for the grand prize, is scheduled for the end of January. MEST Africa will organise and host the event, bringing together a network of entrepreneurs, investors, and partners.
Ashwin Ravichandran, Portfolio Advisor at MEST, expressed excitement about the upcoming finals, noting, “The top 5 finalists of the 2023 MEST Africa Challenge are a testament to the remarkable innovation and potential within Africa’s tech ecosystem.”
The MEST Africa Challenge, a flagship initiative of MEST Africa, plays a key role in nurturing aspiring and early-stage tech startups across the continent. As a comprehensive training program, seed fund, and network of hubs, MEST Africa is dedicated to empowering the next generation of African tech startup innovators.
This year’s challenge, in partnership with Absa Bank, a leader in African financial services committed to facilitating innovation and entrepreneurship, points to the collaborative effort driving Africa’s technological advancement.
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