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VivaTech Unveils the Top 30 of AfricaTech Award 2026

On March 26, 2026, during the 5th edition of the AfricaTech Award, VivaTech, Europe's premier event celebrating startups and technology, rolled out its Top 30 list. This award honors startups that are addressing economic, social, and environmental challenges across the African continent, showcasing innovative solutions and breakthroughs.

François Bitouzet, the General Director of VivaTech, expressed pride in the award’s significance: "I am proud of the reach of the AfricaTech Award. This fifth edition highlights those who drive innovation on the African continent across a variety of strategic sectors. Celebrated in conjunction with our 10th anniversary at VivaTech, it reaffirms our core mission: to serve as a platform for global tech leaders to shape the innovations of tomorrow."

A Trio of Innovators Leading the Way

VivaTech meticulously sifted through over 260 applications from 34 different countries, reflecting the vibrant tech ecosystem and entrepreneurial spirit across Africa. Nigeria once again leads the way, boasting 11 startups among the 30 selected. Kenya remains a strong contender with 4 startups in the spotlight, while Egypt also claims 4 selections, demonstrating the robust innovation landscape within these regions.

Emerging Sectors and Enhanced Diversity

In its debut year, the AfricaTech Award showcases startups spanning seven innovative industries: FinTech, HealthTech, HRTech, AI & Big Data, GreenTech, Agri-Fintech, and Industry Tech, including Manufacturing and Logistics. Notably, the sectors of FinTech and HealthTech are prominent, with 12 and 8 startups represented respectively, alongside 4 in HRTech.

Seventy-five percent of the selected startups are classified as growth-stage companies, underscoring VivaTech’s decade-long commitment to nurturing high-potential projects. In a move towards greater inclusivity, half of the shortlisted startups are founded or co-founded by women, including notable participants like 10mg Health, IFunza, and Eight Medical. The HRTech segment particularly stands out, with 69% of employees in participating startups being women, showcasing the significant role of women in African tech development.

This year’s aggregation of diverse sectors and enhanced representation affirms the status of the AfricaTech Award as a vital recognition of innovation across the continent.

For further details about the AfricaTech Award and the recognized startups, please visit the VivaTech website.

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