Africa Startup Accelerator (ASA) 2026

About

The Africa Startup Accelerator (ASA) 2026 is a fully funded, three-week program designed for young entrepreneurs from East Africa, providing intensive training in entrepreneurship and leadership development, enhancing their business models and core skills, and offering valuable networking opportunities with peers and mentors.

Benefits

• 💰 Financial Support
• Full funding for training costs and related expenses during the program
• 🎓 Leadership Training
• Intensive training focused on business model optimization and leadership development
• 🌐 Network Access
• Opportunity to connect with peers and mentors in the entrepreneurial ecosystem
• 📈 Skill Development
• Enhancement of core entrepreneurial skills and business value through a structured program
• 🎤 Exposure Opportunities
• Participation in a program backed by the University of Iowa, enhancing credibility and visibility

Eligibility Criteria

• 🌍 Geographic Eligibility
• Open to young entrepreneurs from East Africa
• 🏢 Legal Status
• Must be a legally registered startup or business entity
• 💼 Age Requirement
• Participants should be young entrepreneurs, typically defined as individuals under 35 years old
• 💰 Financial Requirements
• No specific financial criteria mentioned, but must be able to participate in a fully funded program
• 👥 Team Requirements
• Individual applicants or small teams are encouraged to apply

Participation Commitments

• 📍 Physical Attendance
• Must attend the program in Iowa City, Iowa from June 30 to July 25, 2026
• ⏰ Time Commitment
• Full-time commitment for the duration of the 3-week program
• 🎤 Presentation Requirement
• Participants may be required to present their business ideas or progress during the program

Target Region

Open to young entrepreneurs in East Africa

Target Sector

Focused on entrepreneurship and business development