AfCFTA Secretariat and Korea-Africa Foundation Launch Startup Partnership Program 2026
The AfCFTA Startup Partnership Program will support around 30 African startups through a structured acceleration programme focused on business readiness, market access, and international partnerships. It targets startups with innovative, scalable models ready for international expansion, particularly into Korean and global markets. Eligible sectors include Fintech, E-commerce, Logistics, Agri-tech, Manufacturing, Digital Platforms, and Climate Tech, among other innovation-driven fields.
WHAT IS AFCTA?
African Continental Free Trade Area: The AFCFTA unites all 55 African Union member states into a single continental market of 1.3 billion people with a combined GDP of ~$3.4 trillion. Its core aim is to eliminate trade barriers, boost intra-African trade, and advance value-added production across service sectors. It entered into force on May 30, 2019, with trading commencing January 1, 2021. The Secretariat is based in Accra, Ghana, headed by Secretary-General Wamkele Mene. As a flagship project of AU's Agenda 2063, it is designed to drive industrialization, investment, and job creation across the continent.
OVERVIEW
The AFCFTA Startup Partnership Program will support approximately 30 African startups operating in priority sectors through a structured acceleration programme designed to enhance business readiness, improve market access, and facilitate international partnerships.
ELIGIBILITY
The program is open to African startups that have innovative and scalable business models
and can demonstrate readiness for international expansion. They must also show interest in entering the Korean and global markets.
Who Can Apply?
1. Applications are open to African startups operating in sectors including:
2. Fintech
3. E-commerce
4. Logistics
5. Agri-tech
6. Manufacturing
7. Digital platforms
8. Climate Tech
…..and other innovation-driven sectors aligned with AfCFTA priorities
PROGRAM OBJECTIVE
The program aims to enhance the competitiveness and scalability of African startups simultaneously supporting market entry into Korea and other global markets. They aim to facilitate cross-border business partnerships and investment opportunities and also promote innovation and commercialization across key AfCFTA priority sectors.
DEADLINE
Application Period: Monday 1st June to Sunday 14th June, 2026
Contact: [email protected]
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