VivaTech, established as Europe’s premier technology and startup event, has officially launched the application cycle for the fourth annual AfricaTech Awards. This prestigious competition is designed to identify, support, and elevate African startups that are fundamentally reshaping the continent’s business landscape through technology.
Taking place in Paris, France, from June 17–20, 2026, VivaTech serves as a global stage. The AfricaTech Awards specifically aim to bridge the gap between African innovators and international investors, providing a high-visibility platform for the continent’s burgeoning tech talent.
The selection process will culminate in the invitation of six top finalists to attend VivaTech 2026. These entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to:
- Pitch to Global Leaders: Finalists will present their solutions directly to a curated audience of international investors, corporate executives, and tech enthusiasts on the VivaTech stage.
- Global Visibility: Winners will be announced during the VivaTech Global Awards Ceremony, earning a “prominent spotlight” that often leads to significant media coverage and strategic partnerships.
- Networking: Startups gain unparalleled access to the VivaTech ecosystem, facilitating connections that can drive regional and international expansion.
To maintain a high standard of competition, VivaTech has set specific requirements for all applying ventures:
- Geography: The startup’s headquarters and primary operations must be located within Africa.
- Market Focus: The product or service must specifically address challenges or opportunities within the African market.
- Financial Maturity: Startups must have successfully raised at least $150,000 in funding (Seed level or higher), ensuring the businesses are beyond the initial ideation phase and ready for scaling.
Entrepreneurs looking to showcase their impact on the global stage must act quickly:
- Application Deadline: February 16, 2026.
- Event Dates: June 17–20, 2026, in Paris.
The AfricaTech Awards have become a vital barometer for the health of the African tech ecosystem. By bringing African founders to Paris, VivaTech is not just celebrating innovation; it is creating a tangible pathway for African startups to access European and global capital. Past participants have leveraged the “VivaTech bump” to close subsequent funding rounds and enter new markets, solidifying the awards’ reputation as a launchpad for the continent’s next “unicorns.”
