african startups
to the world
get a chance to win up to
cash prize & global recognition
african startups
to the world
get a chance to win up to
cash prize & global recognition
TC Battlefield is a startup pitch competition dedicated to showcasing local startups innovations to a global audience and esteemed investors. It offers an incredible opportunity for African startups to shine on the world stage, unparalleled publicity on both local and international platforms, and a host of other fantastic rewards.
2025 battlefield sponsor
Why Should I Apply?
For Startups
Showcase your startup to the world
Showcase your startrt to the world
Get an opportunity to win a free booth
An opportunity to win exciting equity-free prize money
Win free press credits and features from TechCabal PR
For Investors
Get access to a comprehensive database of pre-screened African startups
Book one-on-one sessions with selected startups
Thought leadership and positioning for your firm
Who’s
eligible?
1
We Welcome Everyone
Whether you’re just starting or scaling up, apply! We especially love early-stage startups.
2
Making Impact in Africa
Your startup should be registered in Africa and helping solve problems for African customers.
3
Built with Real Technology
Your product uses meaningful tech to solve real problems—more than just a basic website.
4
6 Months to 3 Years in Operation
You’re past the idea stage and have been actively building for at least 6 months.
5
Beta Startups Can Apply on one condition
Still in beta? You have to be ready to launch publicly within 3 months after the competition.
6
Generating Revenue
You’ve been earning consistent revenue for 3-6 months—proving customers love what you’re building.
Key dates
Mar 11
Applications Open
AUG 01
Applications Close
AUG 15
Shortlisted Startup Announcement
AUG 25
TC Battlefield Pre-accelerator Begins
Sep 26
Pre-accelerator Ends
Oct 15
Competition Day
oct 16
Winner Announcement
2025 program partner
What you stand to gain
invitation to lagos
Get invited by D4D Hub to attend Moonshot 2025 and pitch your project live on 15th October.
$30,000 prize pool
Stand a chance to win from a prize pool shared among the top 3 finalists: $15,000, $10,000 and $5,000.
investor exposure
Connect directly with investors through opportunities facilitated by D4D Hub and TechCabal.
high-level visibility
Showcase your innovation to tech leaders, donors, and policymakers shaping Africa’s creative digital future.
2024
Winners
Spotlighting the startups that emerged winners in last year’s TC Battlefield competition.
Swap
2nd
One Grid
1st
Company Name
3rd
FAQ
-
What do you do with our data after the event?
It depends on what you’ve asked us to do with it. By default, we’ll keep it in our internal database of startups to inform our understanding of the market.
We may use some of the information in aggregate format in anonymised reports about Africa’s startup landscapes. However, we will never share information about your startup specifically without your permission.
-
Do I have to share information about my revenue?
No, you don’t have to. However, if you are interested in winning our fastest-growing startup award, we will need that info for you to be eligible.
-
I am an investor, how can I get access to the startups that apply?
Investors can fill out this form with their details so that we can connect them with Battlefield startups. You can also book a one-on-one session here. We will share the list of startups available for one-on-ones closer to the event.
-
How to participate in the one-on-one investor sessions?
You have to book those ahead of the conference. Those are separate from Battlefield by TechCabal Insights. You can book here.
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What happens if I don’t consent for my data to be shared?
Nothing. We won’t share it with anyone outside of our team and the judges.
-
Who will you share my data with with?
Upon your consent, we will share your pitch deck and related details with investors in our database and network for the purpose of investment decisions.
-
What will you do with my data?
Your data will be used to decide a winner for the competition and it helps inform our understanding of startups in Africa. Additionally, we will use it to match you with potential investors at our Moonshot Conference in Lagos.
-
Will the audience be allowed to vote for their preferred candidate?
Winner selection is mostly decided by the judges. The audience can only vote for their preferred startups (2) to win booths at the conference.
-
Can startups from other countries apply?
Yes, startups from all over Africa can apply but we’re unable to sponsor visas at this time. Startups can either pay for their travel or send in a pre-recorded video pitch. For startups who choose to travel, we can provide visa support in the form of documentation.
-
What are the prizes to be won from the competition?
What are the prizes to be won from the competition?
Three winners get to win $2000- $10,000 cash prize and global recognition.
-
Do I need to get a ticket to attend the pitch competition?
If you’re a founder who applied for the competition you get an automatic free pass. Others, however, need to get their tickets
-
Is the application limited to a specific sector?
No, all startups in any industry can apply, you just have to state how the product is leveraging technology to solve problems.
-
Where is Battlefield by TechCabal Insights happening?
The competition is happening at Moonshot 2024 conference on October 9th and 10th
-
Is the application free?
Yes application is free, all you have to do is register on the website and provide all the information required
