Cape Venture Bridge (CGVB) Cohort 1

About

AfricArise is selecting 20 Western Cape technology startups for a six-month programme that prepares founders for international venture capital and market expansion, with mentorship, R125,000 in technology credits and a funded GITEX Africa trip for the top five.

Benefits

• 💻Technology credits
  Each selected startup receives R125,000 in technology credits through programme partners
• 🤝Mentorship
  Each selected startup receives at least 12 hours of one-on-one mentorship
• 📈Investment-readiness training
  Selected startups receive training in cross-border finance and regulation and investor pitching support
• 🎤Pitch event
  Selected startups have an opportunity to present at a competitive public pitch event in Cape Town
• ✈️ GITEX Africa delegation
  The five highest-performing startups receive a fully funded trip to GITEX Africa in Morocco from 26 to 28 April 2027
• 🌍Market preparation
  Selected startups receive go-to-market masterclasses and advance investor and business-partner meetings for the funded delegation

Eligibility Criteria

• Mandatory: registered and operationally based in the Western Cape
• Mandatory: clear intention and basic capacity to target international markets within 12 months
• Mandatory: technology or innovation-driven business in SaaS, climate-tech, agritech, fintech, e-commerce or health-tech
• Mandatory: at least two co-founders or full-time team members able to attend programme activities
• Preferred: applications from women and young founders are sought

Target Sector

Agriculture & Food, Energy & Utilities, Financial Services, Healthcare & Life Sciences, Retail & Consumer, Other

Target Location

Western Cape, South Africa; applicants must be registered and operationally based in the Western Cape.