Bloomberg’s African Startups to Watch 2025

Africa has seen many innovative breakthroughs, but it still faces major challenges. These include mitigating climate change and boosting agricultural productivity.

African startups are stepping up to tackle these issues head-on. With innovative solutions and technologies like generative artificial intelligence, they are making a unique difference. Their work improves the quality of life for the world’s youngest population while addressing the continent’s most urgent problems.

To spotlight these trailblazers, Bloomberg is launching the inaugural Africa Startups to Watch list. This list will recognize the most innovative founders and ideas from across the continent. It aims to showcase diversity in founders, teams, locations, and ideas. We believe this diversity leads to the most groundbreaking companies.

Who Should Apply?

If your startup is committed to solving Africa’s challenges, boasts a standout product or service that has garnered investor and customer attention, and remains privately held, we encourage you to apply.

Bloomberg is seeking companies with measurable impact. Talk about how your product is performing in the market, share details of any external funding you’ve secured, and highlight what makes your business model unique. Specific achievements and metrics will make your application stand out.

Important Dates and What to Expect

• Application Deadline: November 8, 2024
• Announcement Date: The selected startups will be revealed in the first quarter of 2025.
• Exposure: Startups featured on the Africa Startups to Watch 2025 list will be highlighted across multiple Bloomberg platforms, including Bloomberg TV.

Submit your application by the deadline, and provide thorough, qualitative insights into your business model and customer interest. Ensure your application is clear and detailed, with specific examples of your product’s unique value proposition.

This is your chance to showcase your startup’s role in solving Africa’s biggest challenges while gaining recognition on a global platform.