Female entrepreneurs in South Africa can submit applications for the Innovest Ignite Accelerator program.
The Innovest Ignite Accelerator, now in its fourth edition, is inviting applications from female-led or female-founded early-stage South African startups. This industry-neutral program supports startups across all sectors and business models within the country, with a focus on scaling, innovation, and contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered, startups must meet the following criteria:
- Be female-led or female-founded
- Be based in South Africa
- Be at the pre-seed or seed stage
- Aim to scale, innovate, and contribute to one or more of the UN SDGs
Benefits
Successful startups will benefit from an intensive, eight-week, fully remote accelerator program. This program is designed to help founders build dynamic, investor-ready ventures. Participants will gain access to a network of investors, ecosystem partners, and community leaders. The program culminates in a live demo day, where startups can pitch to investors and key stakeholders. Each cohort accepts 20 to 30 high-potential startups.
Selection Process
Applications for the Innovest Ignite Accelerator are open until August 29, 2025. Startups can apply online via a link provided by the program organizers. Selection is based on potential, innovation, and alignment with the SDGs.
The program is designed for early-stage teams and is open to startups across all sectors and business models within South Africa. There are no restrictions on the startup's location beyond the host region. The program supports founders building disruptive ventures and aims to help early-stage startups attract investment.
In Summary
The Innovest Ignite Accelerator offers a unique opportunity for female-led South African startups to scale, innovate, and make a positive impact. By participating in this eight-week, fully remote program, startups can gain access to a network of investors, ecosystem partners, and community leaders, culminating in a live demo day to pitch to investors and key stakeholders. Apply now if you are a female-led or female-founded startup at the pre-seed or seed stage, aiming to drive innovation and address one or more of the UN SDGs.
Founders of eligible startups can benefit from an investment-focused, eight-week accelerator program, designed to finance and support their ventures with a focus on technology and innovation. Successful participation in the program may attract investment from a network of investors, fostering the growth of female-led businesses in South Africa.
