Global seed-stage startup competition Seedstars World has opened applications for its latest African heat in Gaborone, Botswana, which will see one startup selected to represent the country at the global final in Geneva, Switzerland in February.
Seedstars World has already hosted African heats in Mozambique, South Africa, Nigeria, Ghana, Ivory Coast,Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, Ethiopia, Angola and Tanzania, while a Senegalese event takes place tomorrow.
The Botswana leg of the competition takes place on November 27, with applications now open. The winning startup will pitch alongside other companies from developing markets in Geneva, having the chance to win up to US$500,000 in funding.
Startups applying to take part must be less than two years old, have less than US$500,000 in funding, and have an available MVP. Seedstars World is also looking for smart startups that solve regional issues or develop profitable products for the global market.
“Gaborone marks our last African event of this year’s tour. After visiting 12 countries across the continent, we are excited to see what number 13 has in store for us,” said Marcello Schermer, regional manager for Africa at Seedstars World.
Up to 10 of the best startups in Botswana will be invited to pitch at the event, which will be hosted at the Microsoft Innovation Centre. The event is supported by Botswana Innovation Hub (BIH), First Steps Venture Centre, RLabs, Young Achievers Botswana and The Hookup Dinner.
