MEST Entrepreneurial School of Technology (MEST Africa) is now open for applications for the 7th edition of the MEST Africa Challenge (MAC 2025). This pan-African pitch competition is designed to identify and support high-potential startups by providing them with funding, mentorship and the opportunity to scale their innovations.

This year MAC 2025 is focused on FinTech startups, a unique opportunity for founders who are changing how money moves, is managed and insured across the continent.

What’s in it for FinTech Startups?

Applications are open from July 30th to September 26th, 2025. After the application window closes, 20 semi-finalists will be selected, followed by 10 grand-finalists. The overall winner will receive US $50,000 in equity investment and the opportunity to pilot their solution with strategic partners at scale.

With US $30 million invested across 90+ startups and 2,000 entrepreneurs to date, MEST is one of the leading early-stage investors in Africa’s tech ecosystem. This year’s challenge is an even bigger commitment to FinTech, in partnership with Absa Bank. This partnership is to further MEST’s goal of driving innovation and growth across Africa, especially in digital finance.

Who should apply?

The MAC 2025 is open to early-stage FinTech startups or companies with high-value, value-chain solutions that are already operational in at least one of Absa’s priority markets. These are Botswana, Uganda, Mauritius, Seychelles, Kenya, Mozambique, Zambia and Ghana.

Key Requirements:

  • The company must be three years old or younger.

  • It should have a minimum monthly recurring revenue of US $5,000.

  • The startup should have raised no more than US $1 million in total funding.

  • Each startup must have at least two co-founders.

  • The company must be able to pitch in English.

  • Delaware registration is an advantage but not mandatory.

How to Apply:

Founders interested in applying for the challenge can submit a short online application along with a three-minute video pitch.After the application window closes, the competition will move to virtual semi-finals in late October and the top ten finalists will compete live in Cape Town at the Grand Finale in late November.

MEST and Absa’s Strategic Partnership:

To support the next wave of FinTech innovation, MEST and Absa have partnered to connect startups with the resources and expertise they need. This aligns with Absa’s priority to grow digital finance solutions, especially those that promote inclusive growth across Africa.

Why Apply to MAC 2025?

  • Equity Investment & Scaling: Winners will receive US $50,000 in equity investment and the opportunity to pilot their solution at scale.

  • Absa Partnership: A chance to work closely with Absa, a major player in Africa’s banking and digital finance space.

  • Networking & Visibility: The event provides huge exposure and a platform for startups to connect with potential investors, mentors and partners.