The Founders Smith Accelerator Program 2026 has officially opened applications for African startups seeking mentorship, strategic guidance, and access to investors, organisers announced.
The initiative, designed to support early-stage and growth-focused ventures across the continent, aims to strengthen business models, accelerate growth, and prepare startups for regional and international markets. Founders from all sectors are eligible to apply, with the program offering a combination of expert mentoring, networking opportunities, and investor engagement.
According to program organisers, the 2026 cycle will focus on equipping entrepreneurs with practical skills in areas such as fundraising, scaling operations, financial management, and market entry strategies. Participants will also gain exposure to global best practices, enhancing their competitiveness beyond national borders.
“Startups are the backbone of Africa’s economic transformation,” said a spokesperson for Founders Smith. “Through targeted mentorship and investor access, we aim to empower founders to take their businesses to the next level and position them for success on regional and international stages.”
The program has a strong track record of identifying promising ventures and connecting them with investors and partners, enabling startups to raise capital, expand their customer base, and accelerate growth. Past cohorts have included companies that have successfully launched products, secured funding, and scaled operations across multiple African countries.
Applications for the 2026 edition are open until January 30, with selection based on criteria including innovation, market potential, scalability, and the founder’s capacity to execute the business plan. Shortlisted startups will undergo a rigorous evaluation process before being admitted to the accelerator.
Africa’s startup ecosystem has grown rapidly in recent years, driven by mobile technology, fintech innovations, agritech solutions, and digital services. The continent attracted a record $5.2 billion in venture capital in 2025, according to industry analysts, highlighting the increasing interest of international investors in African technology and innovation.
Programs like Founders Smith are seen as crucial for helping early-stage companies navigate challenges such as limited access to capital, talent shortages, and regulatory barriers. By providing structured guidance and mentorship, accelerators aim to reduce failure rates and increase the likelihood of sustainable growth for startups.
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The Founders Smith program also includes investor pitch sessions, workshops, and networking events, connecting entrepreneurs with potential partners and funding sources. Organisers emphasise that the program’s holistic approach — combining practical business skills, mentorship, and investor access — is designed to equip startups for long-term success.
“Preparing startups for regional and international markets requires more than capital; founders need the knowledge, networks, and strategic guidance to scale effectively,” said the program spokesperson. “This accelerator is designed to provide all three.”
Interested founders can apply through the program’s official website, submitting details about their startup, business model, team, and growth plans. Organisers encourage applications from ventures operating in diverse sectors, including technology, healthcare, agriculture, education, and renewable energy.
By fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, programs like Founders Smith aim to drive economic growth, create jobs, and enhance Africa’s global competitiveness. With the 2026 cycle now open, organisers hope to identify the next generation of African startups poised to make an impact on the continent and beyond.
Applications close on January 30, 2026, with selected startups expected to begin the program later in the first quarter of the year.
