Green economy entrepreneurs and innovators across Southern and East Africa are invited to enter the 2026 FNF Afri GreenPitch Challenge — a shark tank-style pitch competition organised by Westerwelle Startup Haus Mombasa and GreenCape, in partnership with the Friedrich Naumann Foundation (FNF). The challenge offers a range of cash and in-kind prizes to the value of approximately $20,000, with pitching events taking place in Nairobi, Kenya and Cape Town, South Africa in September 2026.
The FNF Afri GreenPitch Challenge connects pre-growth green economy businesses with investors, funders, and industry leaders through structured, high-energy pitch events. Beyond the competition itself, finalists gain access to investment workshops, mentorship, and a network of potential funders positioned to help accelerate their ventures.
Eligible Sectors:
- Circular economy and waste
- Renewable energy
- Sustainable agriculture
- Sustainable mobility
- Water and wastewater
Who Should Enter:
The challenge is open to innovators and entrepreneurs whose businesses:
- Are based in Botswana, eSwatini, Kenya, Lesotho, Namibia, South Africa, or Tanzania
- Are at the pre-growth stage — registered, trading, and generating sales, and looking for Series A funding
- Operate within one of the five eligible green economy sectors
What Winners and Finalists Receive:
- Cash prize for the overall winner
- A full-day investment strategies workshop hosted by RMB Ventures for all finalists
- Mentoring support from industry practitioners
- Access to a network of potential funders to accelerate business growth
- Total prizes to the value of approximately $20,000