TotalEnergies Startupper of the Year 2024 Challenge for African Entrepreneurs

Why Apply for the Startupper Challenge?

This isn’t just another startup competition. It’s a platform that recognizes and empowers entrepreneurs who are not only business-savvy but also committed to making a positive impact on their communities and the planet. Whether you have a startup under 3 years old or a brilliant business idea waiting to take flight, this challenge is for you.

Who Can Participate?

• Age: 18 to 35 years old (born between May 1, 1988, and April 30, 2006)
• Residency: You must be a resident of the country where you apply
• For Startup Owners: Your startup should be less than 3 years old, registered in your country no earlier than April 30, 2020
• For Idea Holders: Have a mature business idea ready to launch within a few months after the challenge
• Impact Focus: Your startup or idea should have a positive impact on your community and/or the environment

32 Countries, 3 Categories, 100 Winners!

The Startupper Challenge spans across Africa, giving entrepreneurs in 32 countries the chance to shine in three innovative categories:

1. Innov’Up: For the most innovative startups and business ideas. One winner per category in each country, plus 4 additional winners selected by an international jury in the Power’Up category.
2. Cycl’Up: Celebrating startups and ideas that champion the circular economy.
3. Power’Up: Honoring ventures that promote, create, or utilize sustainable and affordable energy solutions.

Participating Countries

• North Africa: Morocco, Algeria, Egypt, Tunisia
• West Africa: Ivory Coast, Senegal, Guinea Conakry, Burkina Faso, Nigeria, Ghana, Togo
• Central Africa: Gabon, Cameroon, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Congo Brazzaville, Equatorial Guinea
• East Africa & Indian Ocean: Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Mauritius, Madagascar, Mayotte, La Réunion
• Southern Africa: Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Angola, Namibia, Malawi, South Africa

What’s in it for the Winners?

The 100 Startuppers of the Year will receive a game-changing support package:

• Financial Boost: Get the capital you need to take your startup or idea to the next level.
• Media Spotlight: Gain national and international exposure to attract customers and investors.
• Expert Coaching: Receive personalized guidance from industry veterans to refine your business model.
• 100 Startuppers Event: Network with key players in the entrepreneurial ecosystem at an exclusive event.

Success Stories from Past Challenges

Previous winners have gone on to revolutionize sectors like agritech, edtech, and renewable energy. Take Sarah from Kenya, whose solar-powered irrigation startup won in 2022. Today, she’s partnering with TotalEnergies to bring clean water to over 50,000 farmers.

“The Startupper Challenge wasn’t just about the prize. It was about the doors it opened and the mentors who believed in my vision,” says Sarah.

How to Apply and Key Dates

1. Application Deadline: June 18, 2024
2. Apply Online: Visit the Official Startupper Challenge website
3. Submission Requirements:
   • Detailed business plan or idea pitch
   • Proof of age and residency
   • For startups: Registration documents
   • Impact statement: How your venture benefits your community or environment

Ready to Be Part of Africa’s Entrepreneurial Vanguard?

The TotalEnergies Startupper of the Year Challenge 2024 is more than a competition; it’s a movement to harness the ingenuity of African youth to drive sustainable development. Whether you’re reimagining agriculture in Senegal, revolutionizing education in Uganda, or pioneering green energy in South Africa, your journey to impact starts here.

Apply now and join the ranks of Africa’s most promising entrepreneurs. Let’s make TotalEnergies’ 100th year the launchpad for Africa’s next century of innovation!

For more information, success stories, and application tips, visit the TotalEnergies Startupper Challenge website.