Startup challenge for Africa returns

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Following the success of the first Startupper of the Year Challenge, held in 2015 in more than 30 African countries, Total is bringing it back this year across the continent. The 2018-2019 Startupper of the Year by Total Challenge will support and reward young local entrepreneurs in any business sector with a project or business less than two years old. In each participating African country, a local jury comprised of experts from Total, specialists from incubators and accelerators, business leaders and local community stakeholders will select three winners.

The projects will be assessed based on their:

Total is thrilled to announce the launch of the #StartupperOfTheYearChallenge ��. We are looking for innovative young entrepreneurs who are willing to make things happen in their country. Registration is open until November 13 at https://t.co/EBWolu3RH3

— Total (@Total) October 3, 2018

Each winner will be awarded the Startupper of the Year by Total label and receive financial support of at least R150 000, plus professional coaching and extensive publicity to advertise their project.

New for this year in support of women entrepreneurs, the jury will also designate a Top Female Entrepreneur in each country. This special award, which is in addition to the other awards, is Total’s way of encouraging more women to take part in the Challenge.

A grand jury will meet subsequently to select three Grand Winners for the entire continent, from among the first-prize winners in each country.

More than just a business challenge, the 2018-2019 Startupper of the Year by Total Challenge also reaffirms Total’s commitment to capacity building in the countries where it operates, worldwide. By helping innovative young entrepreneurs to realize their projects, the Challenge strengthens the local social fabric.

Candidates have until November 13 to submit their applications.