Founders Smith Accelerator Program 2026

About

The Founders Smith Accelerator Program 2026 is designed for early-stage startups in West Africa, providing mentorship, strategic guidance, and direct investment opportunities to help entrepreneurs refine their business models and prepare for market expansion within a 3-month timeframe.

Benefits

• 🎓 Mentorship Program
• Access to mentorship and strategic guidance throughout the program.
• 🏢 Business Model Refinement
• Support in refining and validating business models to enhance market fit.
• 📈 Market Growth Support
• Assistance in driving market growth and preparing for regional and international expansion.
• 💰 Investment Opportunities
• Direct opportunities to connect with investors for potential funding.
• 🚀 Acceleration to Funding
• The program aims to help startups quickly reach the funding stage.

Eligibility Criteria

• 🌍 Geographic Eligibility
• Open to early-stage startups from Africa, primarily targeting West Africa.
• 💼 Business Stage
• Must be an early-stage startup with a clear vision for expansion and innovative solutions.
• ⏰ Timeframe Requirement
• Must be prepared to reach investment readiness within 3 months.

Participation Commitments

• 📍 Physical Attendance
• Participants must attend all program sessions and activities over the 3-month period.
• 🎤 Presentation Requirement
• Must deliver a pitch or presentation to potential investors at the end of the program.

Target Region

Focused on early-stage startups in West Africa

Target Sector

Startup and Entrepreneurship