Africa’s biggest stage for early-stage innovation is back — and it’s more ambitious than ever. The Supernova Challenge 2.0 returns to GITEX Africa 2025, set against the vibrant backdrop of Marrakech, Morocco, with a staggering $110,000 in equity-free prize money up for grabs. For visionary founders across the continent, this is more than just a competition — it’s a career-defining moment.
Modelled after Expand North Star, the globally renowned startup mega-event held annually in Dubai, the Supernova Challenge has grown into a premier launchpad for Africa’s most promising startups. It offers unmatched visibility, credibility, and access to global capital networks — all from one of the continent’s fastest-growing tech platforms.
The impact of the Supernova Challenge is already being felt across Africa’s innovation ecosystem. Last year’s winner, Lupiya, a Zambian fintech startup, demonstrated the power of this opportunity in real time. With its AI-powered neobank, Lupiya is redefining how underserved populations access financial services, building smart solutions that bridge the gap between traditional banking and digital inclusion.
Winning the 2024 edition of the Supernova Challenge at GITEX Africa didn’t just come with a check — it opened doors. The prize money helped Lupiya strengthen its AI engine and enhance its core platform. By October 2024, the company had already secured $500,000 in follow-on funding, and according to updates shared at GITEX Global’s Breakfast Briefing, Lupiya is currently in advanced discussions to close an additional $3 million, with plans to raise up to $10 million to meet surging demand across new markets.
These are the kinds of milestones the Supernova Challenge helps make possible.
Furthermore, the 2025 edition promises to raise the bar even higher. Dozens of cutting-edge startups will compete across verticals including fintech, agritech, healthtech, climate innovation, logistics, e-commerce, and more — all showcasing how African entrepreneurs are tackling the world’s most pressing challenges with locally grounded, globally scalable solutions.
Why Enter the Supernova Challenge?
- Equity-free prize pool: Win a share of $110,000 to accelerate your venture, with no equity dilution.
- Global visibility: Pitch to top-tier investors, corporate leaders, accelerators, and media from Africa and beyond.
- Validation and credibility: Build momentum with a stamp of approval from one of the most prestigious tech showcases on the continent.
- Networking & community: Connect with peers, mentors, funders, and ecosystem enablers at GITEX Africa — one of the continent’s largest gatherings of innovation stakeholders.
The organizers are calling on bold entrepreneurs across Africa and the diaspora to step up and claim their spot on this global stage.
“This is your chance to shine,” say the Supernova team. “We’re looking for ambitious founders ready to take their ventures to the next level, solve meaningful problems, and make an impact that resonates far beyond borders.”
Lastly, with Africa poised to be home to the next wave of global tech success stories, the Supernova Challenge 2.0 is more than a pitch competition — it’s a gateway to scale, capital, and long-term transformation.
Applications are now open. If you believe your startup has what it takes to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the best, don’t miss your chance to be part of this groundbreaking journey.
For more details on how to apply, visit:
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