The Funding Landscape in 2026
Africa's startup ecosystem is maturing rapidly. In 2026, we are seeing a significant shift towards equity-free support and non-dilutive grants, especially for early-stage founders in climate tech, agriculture, and civic innovation.
If you are building in Africa, you don't always need to give away equity to get started. Here are the top 7 opportunities accepting applications right now in January 2026.
1. Qualcomm Make in Africa Startup Mentorship Program
Deadline: Feb 15, 2026 Benefit: Equity-free support + $5,000 stipend
Qualcomm is back with its mentorship program for early-stage African startups. This is one of the most prestigious technical mentorship programs available. It focuses heavily on deep tech, connectivity, and hardware-integrated software.
Why apply: You get direct access to Qualcomm engineers and a cash stipend without giving up any equity. Read our full analysis and apply here
2. SADC Green Economy Initiatives (Southern Africa)
Deadline: March 31, 2026 Benefit: Up to €1,000,000 per project
The SADC TFCA Financing Facility has opened its 3rd call for concept notes. This is a massive opportunity for startups and organizations working in the Green Economy and Tourism sectors in Southern Africa.
Key Requirement: Focus on transfrontier conservation areas (TFCAs). Apply here
3. EU CERC Business Lab (East Africa)
Deadline: Jan 27, 2026 Benefit: €100,000 Grant
The EU CERC Business Lab is looking for a Civil Society Organization (CSO) or social enterprise in East Africa to run a capacity-building program. While this is a B2B/B2G opportunity, the funding amount is significant.
Who is this for: Social enterprises and capacity builders in East Africa. Apply here
4. Google for Startups Accelerator: MENA
Deadline: Jan 30, 2026 Benefit: Equity-free support, Google product credits
For startups in North Africa (and the Middle East), Google's accelerator remains a gold standard. It focuses on AI/ML and Cloud technologies.
Why apply: Access to Google's AI experts and massive cloud credits. Apply here
5. YALI East Africa Accelerator
Deadline: Jan 15, 2026 Benefit: Fully Funded Training
The Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) in partnership with the University of Iowa is running a startup accelerator for young East Africans.
Who is this for: Young founders (18-35) in East Africa looking for structured business training. Apply here
6. CSR-Hub West Africa (Civic Space)
Deadline: Jan 15, 2026 Benefit: Capacity building & Support
The West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI) is calling for applications for its regulatory compliance program. If you are a social impact startup or NGO in West Africa navigating complex regulations, this is for you.
7. South Africa Tourism Market Access Programme
Deadline: Jan 16, 2026 Benefit: Domestic market access support
For South African travel and tourism startups, the Department of Tourism is offering direct support to help you access domestic markets.
How to Find More Opportunities
These 7 opportunities are just the tip of the iceberg. We track hundreds of grants, fellowships, and accelerators daily.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are these grants really 100% equity-free?
Yes, all opportunities listed in this guide are grants or prize money, meaning you do not give up any ownership of your startup.
2. Can I apply if my startup is not in a major hub like Lagos or Nairobi?
Absolutely. Most of these programs (like the TEF and Anzisha Prize) are open to entrepreneurs from all 54 African countries, regardless of city.
3. Do I need to be generating revenue to apply?
Not necessarily. Programs like the Tony Elumelu Foundation accept idea-stage entrepreneurs, while others like the Africa's Business Heroes prefer startups with some operational track record.