Meltwater Entrepreneurial School of Technology (MEST) Africa announced regional winners for its inaugural MEST Africa Challenge. The technology entrepreneurship challenge targets Pan-African startups and the winners have a chance to win $50k USD in equity investment.
The finals will see the regional winners from Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana and South Africa go against each other and pitch their companies in front of over 150 leading global investors, entrepreneurs and executives. This will take place in Cape Town on June 20th, during the MEST Africa Summit.
“The world economy is rapidly changing to disrupt traditional businesses through technology, innovation and global competition. As more traditional jobs are eroded, innovative start-ups will be the key contributing factor to curbing unemployment and protecting our lifestyles and livelihoods as a nation and continent.” Chief Executive Officer of MEST Africa Summit sponsor GHL Bank, Mr. Dominic Adu.
The selected finalists include:
- Data Integrated from Kenya: A payment processing company for the public transport industry in Kenya, offering tools and services for transport operators, stakeholders and other interest groups along the value chain.
- Cowtribe.com from Ghana: A USSD-based technology that connects livestock farmers with veterinarians who can provide vaccinations. Cowtribe has shown great traction and has identified a market with high growth potential in Ghana and abroad.
- Accounteer from Nigeria: A SaaS company offering accounting and payroll management software tailored to the needs of numerous African SMEs.
- Swift Vee from South Africa: A livestock and agricultural trading platform. With a solid MVP in place, they are on the path to owning significant market share as this traditional marketplace shifts online.