The New Venture Competition (NVC) is the flagship pitch competition targeted towards early-stage ventures at the Annual Wharton Africa Business Forum (WABF) to showcase and celebrate the next-generation of founders building category-defining businesses on the continent and beyond.
This year’s theme (WABF33), “Built by Billions: Africa’s Future on Africa’s Terms” is a statement on the contribution and agency of every African, across the continent and its diaspora, and NVC sits at the heart of this mission.
Startups have the chance to win funding (non-dilutive financing) and network with top founders and investors from the African continent. The Top 5 Finalists will pitch their startups to a panel of esteemed judges at the conference.
At WABF32, $30,000 in non-dilutive funding was awarded to the Top 3 Finalists.
What are we looking for:
1) Founding Team Experience
Does the current team have the required skills for execution? Is there a track record of building meaningful things and/or an exceptional career trajectory? How has the management team performed since the inception of the company/product?
2) Market and Traction
Is there a demonstrated need or gap in the market that the startup’s solutions solve? Is the total addressable market substantial enough to make this a lucrative investment opportunity? How is the market for the offering growing or evolving, and what early traction has the venture demonstrated?
3) Product Design and Business Model
Does the product or service demonstrate thoughtful design and a clear value proposition? Is the business model viable, scalable, and suited to the target market? How well does the business balance innovation with commercial sustainability?
4) Impact
How meaningfully does the venture address at least one of the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)? Is the impact direct and measurable, and does it create lasting value for African communities or the broader continent?
5) Clarity & Communication
Does the founding team communicate their vision compellingly and concisely? Is the pitch deck clear, well-structured, and persuasive?
Who can apply?
Ventures that meet the following criteria are welcome to apply:
Fewer than 50 full-time employees
Less than $250,000 raised to date
Business must have a direct link to Africa (but can be headquartered outside of Africa)
Timeline
Application Opens: June 1, 2026
Application Closes: Aug 15, 2026
Finalists Announced: Sep 1, 2026
WABF New Venture Competition: Nov 6, 2026
